Lagos WAPA Reaffirms Commitment to Eradicating Gender-Based Violence Through Faith, Community Partnerships
The Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) has reiterated its commitment to eradicating Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and fostering a society rooted in dignity, compassion, and justice through strong collaboration with religious and community leaders across the state.
This reaffirmation came during a one-day Workshop for Religious and Community Leaders in the Fight Against Gender-Based Violence, held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Alausa, Ikeja, with the theme “Restoring Dignity Through Faith and Leadership.”
Delivering her keynote address, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, described GBV as both a social and moral crisis that undermines families and weakens community bonds.
She noted that under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, WAPA has continued to implement holistic interventions encompassing advocacy, survivor empowerment, rehabilitation, and community engagement.
According to her, the ministry has strengthened its Domestic Violence Units across the state to ensure survivors receive psychosocial support, medical attention, legal aid, and temporary shelter. She added that WAPA has also intensified sensitisation campaigns involving men and boys as allies in promoting equality and non-violence.
Citing a recent GBV sensitisation programme held at Isale Ajoke, Lagos Island, Dada recalled that religious and community leaders at the event pledged to become advocates for peace and protectors of the vulnerable.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Rianat Onigbanjo, commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for prioritising initiatives that protect the dignity and welfare of women and children. She also lauded Dada’s visionary leadership and acknowledged Mrs. Abiola Osifowokan, Director of the Domestic Violence Unit, and her team for their dedication to ensuring timely support for survivors.
Onigbanjo further praised the participation of religious and traditional leaders, NGOs, CDAs, CDCs, and media representatives, describing their collaboration as crucial to achieving a violence-free Lagos.
The workshop featured expert lectures and interactive sessions led by Dr. Samson Oyefolu of Lagos State University, who educated participants on various forms and causes of GBV — including physical, emotional, economic, sexual, and digital violence — and their implications for individual and societal well-being. He identified patriarchy, weak law enforcement, and cultural biases as major drivers of abuse and urged participants to reject all forms of violence.
