To strengthen grassroots awareness and action against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) embarked on a door-to-door sensitization campaign in the Apapa-Iganmu Local Government Area on April 4, 2025.
EpeInsights learnt that the outreach, carried out in partnership with the Ford Foundation, was designed to promote a culture of zero tolerance for domestic and sexual violence while encouraging community members to speak up and seek justice.
The DSVA Community Engagement Team visited key locations across the local government, including churches such as RCCG Messiah Palace and Diocese Anglican St. James; mosques like Modirasat and Central Mosque; and schools including Emerald of Glory Academy, Cardoso Junior and Senior High School, and Early Dew International College.
Markets, healthcare centers, and businesses were also reached, with stops at Amukoko Market, Natafod Consultants Hospital, BOKKU Mart, and Wisdom-Med Pharmacy. The team further engaged motor parks and community spaces like Ijora Badia Motor Park and Ijoko Agba Phase 1 Town Hall.
The sensitization exercise spanned 10 major streets in Apapa, including Sule Street, Olajide Street, Amukoko Road, and Cemetery Road. At each stop, the team distributed Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials to a wide range of residents—students, clerics, drivers, hawkers, traders, and business owners alike.
Awareness stickers were pasted across schools, religious centers, and public spaces, while banners were stationed in strategic locations to ensure the message reached a broader audience.
Throughout the campaign, the DSVA emphasized the importance of reporting domestic and sexual abuse and reiterated the agency’s commitment to supporting survivors through free social services. Residents were encouraged to save and share the agency’s toll-free number: 08000-333-333, for immediate reporting of SGBV incidents.
With over 20,000 residents reached, the campaign reaffirmed DSVA’s dedication to building safer communities and driving collective action against all forms of violence.
