In a major step toward strengthening access to justice and protection for survivors, the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has reintroduced the USSD short code *6820#, allowing residents to easily report cases of domestic violence, sexual abuse, rape, child abuse and related offences, right from their mobile phones.
EpeInsights reports that the initiative, launched in collaboration with MTN Nigeria and powered by Africa’s Talking, is designed to make reporting abuse simpler, faster, and more discreet.
With just a few taps *dialling 6820# MTN users are guided through a quick step-by-step process to seek help, report incidents, or connect directly to DSVA’s team for immediate intervention.
What makes this platform especially powerful is its accessibility: it doesn’t require airtime or internet, making it available to anyone, anywhere in Lagos.
Through the service, survivors can access a full range of support services, including:
- Medical care
- Counselling and psychosocial support
- Legal aid
- Empowerment programmes
- Safe shelters
The *6820# code complements DSVA’s 24-hour toll-free helpline (0-8000-333-333), giving residents multiple options to reach help quickly and confidentially.
According to the agency, the goal is simple to remove every barrier that prevents survivors from speaking up and to ensure that no cry for help goes unheard.
This renewed effort reinforces the Lagos State Government’s zero-tolerance stance on gender-based violence, as well as its commitment to using technology to protect lives and promote accountability across the State.
