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On May 28, 2025, the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) engaged Lagos State University, Ojo campus female law students during its “Her Health Matters” program. This vital initiative, in partnership with The Carter Centre, aimed to educate them about sexual violence, its impact, and the importance of awareness and prevention.
The Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, Ms. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, ably represented by Dr. Olive Oluwagbemileke, Head of the Psychology Department of DSVA, delivered a compelling talk titled “Dissipating Ignorance: Shedding Light on the Concept of Sexual Violence.”
She emphasised the significance of addressing sexual violence, highlighting its threat to the holistic health and well-being of women. She provided a comprehensive overview of the legal framework in Lagos State, Nigeria, including the Criminal Law, Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency Law and Cybercrime Act.
The presentation also focused on the impact of sexual violence on survivors, including physical, emotional, academic, and social consequences.
It was stressed that the vulnerability of young women in university settings, where power imbalances, unsafe social settings, and pressure for sex in exchange for favours can increase the risk of abuse.
Ms. Titilola underscored the significance of access to information in empowering young women to prevent and address sexual violence. The importance of bystander intervention was also emphasised, with a call to action to speak up, intervene safely, and create a supportive environment for those affected.
The programme concluded with a call to action, urging the young women to choose courage over silence, truth over myth, and action over apathy, emphasising that every woman deserves to be safe, heard, and respected.
Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials were distributed, providing valuable resources and reinforcing the key messages discussed.
