Lagos State Maintains Number One Position in SGBV Prevention and Response

Lagos State has achieved a significant milestone, proudly retaining its number one position in the sub-national ranking for the prevention and response to Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV). This marks the third consecutive year the state has been recognized as the national leader in this critical area, highlighting a sustained, coordinated, and effective approach to tackling the menace of gender-based violence within the megacity.

The yearly sub-national ranking, meticulously conducted by Invictus Africa with essential support from the Ford Foundation, is underpinned by a rigorous and entirely data-driven methodology. The assessment evaluates the performance of states across four comprehensive key pillars: Prevention and Awareness, Support Services for survivors, robust Law and Policy frameworks, and accountable Budget Spending. Lagos State's consistent top ranking demonstrates its excellence across all these fronts.

​Upon receiving the prestigious award on behalf of the state, Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, the Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), acknowledged the fundamental role of the State's leadership. She expressed profound appreciation to the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, whose strong political backing has been instrumental in strengthening and consolidating the state's zero-tolerance stance and coordinated response mechanisms against SGBV.

​Mrs. Vivour-Adeniyi also extended gratitude to the residents of Lagos for their cooperation and active embrace of the State's message of zero tolerance, emphasizing that community involvement is vital to curbing the spread of violence. She reassured the public that the Lagos State Government remains firmly committed to sustaining and continually improving its response mechanisms, ensuring accessibility and effectiveness for all citizens, especially vulnerable populations.

Looking forward, the DSVA reaffirmed its dedication to a proactive strategy focused on long-term prevention. The State will not relent in driving initiatives that prioritize the protection and rehabilitation of survivors, ensure swift accountability for offenders, and ultimately prevent violence before it occurs, with the overarching goal of reducing the SGBV menace to the barest minimum in Lagos.