LAGOS STATE DSVA ENGAGES RELIGIOUS LEADERS IN 2-DAY SENSITIZATION PROGRAM IN LAGOS

The Lagos Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) successfully conducted a 2-day sensitization program for 84 religious leaders from the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Onigbongbo and Ijede Local Government Areas of Lagos State, on 10th and 11th March, 2024.

The program, facilitated by Mr. Oluwadamilare Adewusi, Head of Community Engagement Unit, aimed to equip religious leaders with knowledge on issues surrounding Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), effective reporting systems, and their roles in helping survivors find justice.

Day One of the program commenced with Reverend Job Oyeleso, Chairman of CAN Onigbongbo LGA, giving a brief exhortation.

Mr. Adewusi delivered a comprehensive presentation on SGBV, emphasizing the importance of religious leaders encouraging open discussions among their congregation about their experiences of victimization and reporting cases of domestic violence to the Lagos DSVA.

On Day Two, Reverend Kolawole Peter, CAN Chairman of Ijede LGA, gave a brief exhortation. The program focused on the role of religious leaders as a connection between the community and formal reporting systems. Participants were charged to operate as a bridge between their congregation and the formal report system, ensuring that survivors receive necessary support and obtain justice.

The program concluded with Reverend Kolawole Peter reaffirming the religious leaders’ commitment to combating SGBV in Lagos State.

Participants also committed the toll-free helpline number, 0800-333-333, to memory.

This 2-day sensitization program underscores the agency’s dedication to raising awareness and encouraging reporting of SGBV cases, a commitment reaffirmed by the Executive Secretary Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi.

Adejoke Ladenegan-Oginni
Head Public Affairs Unit
LAGOS DSVA
14/3/2025