Lagos DSVA Empowers Safeguarding Officers in Fight Against Child Abuse at Capacity Building Workshop

In a bold move to fortify the frontlines against domestic and sexual violence, the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) organized a pivotal Capacity Building Workshop for Safeguarding and Child Protection Officers on February 4, 2026, at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI). The event, which drew participants from various schools and communities, underscored the state’s unwavering commitment to shielding children from harm and equipping educators with essential tools to combat Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).

Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, Executive Secretary of DSVA, kicked off the workshop with a stirring welcome address, praising the attendees for their dedication to upholding children’s rights and well-being. “This workshop is crucial in bolstering your ability to spot risks, respond effectively to safeguarding issues, and enforce child protection laws,” she said. Vivour-Adeniyi reiterated Lagos State’s resolve to eradicate domestic and sexual violence through robust policies, emphasizing that success hinges on well-trained officers. She urged participants to immerse themselves in the sessions and implement the insights in their daily environments.

Delivering a goodwill message, Mrs. Aderonke Oyelakin, Lagos State Coordinator of the Child Protection Network, highlighted the workshop’s role in preventing and addressing child protection challenges. She stressed teachers’ vital position in safeguarding Lagos’ young ones, noting that proper policies arm educators to avert abuse in schools. “Stay alert, respect the law, and protect every child under your watch,” Oyelakin implored.

The workshop featured four insightful sessions led by seasoned experts. First up was Mrs. Atinuke Odukoya, Executive Director of the Centre for Women’s Health and Information (CEWHIN), who provided an overview of SGBV. She delved into safeguarding practices, forms of violence, and the critical difference between abuse and discipline. Participants learned to recognize criminal acts, threats, and emotional distress in pupils, with a strong emphasis on documentation. Odukoya defined SGBV as gender-based discrimination and violence, outlining its causes—like poverty, insecurity, lack of justice, ignorance, unemployment, substance abuse, and learned behaviors from parents—and its devastating consequences, including trauma, stigmatization, and impacts on mental and physical health.

Drawing from recent data, Odukoya noted alarming trends in Nigeria. As earlier reported by NaijaChoice News, the Federal Government recorded over 10,326 GBV cases between January and September 2025 alone, with 2,444 survivors accessing recovery centers. This marks a significant rise from previous years, with physical violence affecting 28% of women, sexual violence 12%, and emotional violence 10%, according to a 2026 systematic review. She called on teachers to vigilantly monitor children, as their future depends on such oversight, and to break the silence that perpetuates violence.

The second session, facilitated by child protection expert Mr. Yakubu Jubril, zeroed in on Safeguarding and Child Protection Policies and the duties of Designated Safeguarding and Child Protection Officers (SCPDO). Jubril offered foundational insights into these policies, urging teachers to grasp and apply them effectively. He reminded educators of their social contract with students, highlighting shared responsibilities among children, families, government, and teachers. Key principles discussed included protection from harm, non-discrimination, prioritizing the child’s best interest, safety, consultation, and transparency. Notably, appointing an SCPDO is mandatory in Lagos schools, with the role elected from peers. Jubril outlined the officer’s responsibilities and stressed the need for prompt reporting and evidence collection to secure justice in SGBV cases.

Mr. Adewusi Damilare, Head of Community Engagement at DSVA, handled the third session on referral pathways and support services. He traced the evolution of the Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team (DSVRT) to the current agency, revealing 26 Family Care Units statewide with trained police for SGBV handling. Damilare spotlighted free legal and psychosocial aid for survivors, asserting no excuse for staying in abusive settings. He detailed DSVA case officers’ roles, response protocols, and 24/7 toll-free lines. Emphasizing collaboration with stakeholders like the Ministries of Education and Justice, media, and NGOs, he advised discreet handling of disclosures, attentive listening, and viewing child protection as a collective duty.

The final session, led by Tech Societal expert Mr. Gabriel Odunsi, tackled safe internet use for schoolchildren. Citing a Nigerian Communications Commission survey, he revealed that 23% of 11–16-year-olds download music online, 48% study digitally, and a staggering 97% face sexual advances virtually. Odunsi flagged risks like cyberbullying, grooming, harmful content, privacy breaches, and scams. He advocated teaching responsible online habits, establishing safety rules, and fostering open communication without punishment.

The workshop wrapped up with expressions of gratitude to DSVA and well-wishes for safe travels home. This initiative aligns with DSVA’s ongoing efforts, including recent trainings for guidance counselors, customary court presidents, and content creators on child protection, as per the agency’s latest activities. With Nigeria grappling with rising SGBV—evidenced by a 20% complaint surge in June 2025 and persistent low conviction rates—such programs are vital in building a safer society.