LAGOS DSVA holds Day 4 of STRAC in Apapa Iganmu LCDA
The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency in furthering it’s awareness month campaign held the Safeguarding and Child’s protection Day 4 at the LCDA Apapa Iganmu today Saturday September 21st 2024 with 524 students aged between 7 and 17 years of age.
The Executive Secretary, DSVA, Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi while delivering her speech said the program was part of the events earmarked to celebrate the Domestic and Sexual Violence awareness month as children were important to be protected from all forms of abuse.
She noted that the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) and participating child protection institutions underscored the significance of continuous efforts to address SGBV and child abuse.
The program which was with the support of the Rule of Law and Anti corruption RoLAC, funded by the European Union and implemented by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, was organized to equip the children with the needed knowledge to effectively protect themselves and speak out against all forms of abuse.
The Chairman, Hon. Dr. Funmilayo Akande Muhammed,
the Supervisor for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA), Hon. Olufunmilayo Lydia Adewole, were in attendance, along with the representative of the Chairman of Apapa Iganmu LCDA (her Secretary), Mr. Ajibade.
Mrs. Aderonke Oyelakin, a representative from the Child Protection Agency (CPN), gave the goodwill message at the event.
Mr. Damilare Adewusi, a facilitator from the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), led a session titled “Understanding Child Abuse,” explaining how parents can sometimes contribute to child abuse and encouraging them to avoid using derogatory language with their children. He had an interactive session with the students.
Mrs. Taiwo from DSVA narrated a story about sexual violence and abuse involving three students who struggled to speak up about SGBV but eventually reported the abuse to their teacher. She encouraged the students to speak up immediately and to inform their parents about any SGBV incidents. She also urged parents to be attentive and seek help when their children confide in them.
Hon. Ajigbade Omoniyi gave a speech on child abuse. Mrs. Olufunmilayo Lydia, the Supervisor of WAPA, also spoke on child abuse, emphasizing parents’ responsibilities.
The students received two essential resources:
“Safeguarding the Rights of a Child” and “My Passport of Rights” for the Prevention of Child Abuse in Lagos
These materials were provided to equip the students with knowledge about child abuse prevention and child rights in Lagos State.
Students who were interested in drawing were provided with materials to showcase their artistic skills, while other talents, such as reciting poems, were also encouraged.
Following the art session, a total of five students were awarded gifts for their exceptional drawing skills after the judges had collated the scores.
The students and their parents left the event equipped with the knowledge and confidence to protect themselves and to speak out against any form of abuse they may encounter.
Adejoke Ladenegan Oginni
Head Public Affairs Unit
LAGOS DSVA
21/9/2024
