Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), in collaboration with the Rule of Law and Anti-corruption (ROLAC), recently held a Roundtable with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in the State at Protea Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos.
The significant gathering of over 40 Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) working in the Sexual and Gender-Based Violence space was convened with an acknowledgement of the pivotal role played by CSOs, which is rooted in awareness creation, community engagement programmes and the provision of critical services including shelter, medical, legal and psychosocial support for survivors.
Executive Secretary of DSVA, Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, in her address, noted that SGBV is indeed a collective responsibility, adding that the State Government cannot engage, prevent and respond alone without the contribution of other relevant stakeholders.
She further said the meeting was a testament to the collective commitment to strengthening the synergy among stakeholders actively involved in the fight against sexual and gender-based violence in the state.
She referenced the primary objectives of the gathering which, according to her, were multifaceted among which is Enhancing Collaboration by fostering stronger partnerships and collaboration among CSOs, government agencies, and other stakeholders to create a more coordinated and effective response to sexual and gender-based violence.
She further explained that Strategic Planning through discussions and formulation of strategic plans that will guide collective efforts in preventing and responding to sexual and gender-based violence within our communities was also key.
Vivour-Adeniyi also emphasised that the unique gathering was also an opportunity for knowledge sharing among stakeholders.
Also speaking, Mrs. Ajibola Ijimakinwa, State Project Coordinator of ROLAC (funded by the European Union and managed by IDEA), commended the CSOs, emphasising the programme’s focus on enhancing collaboration and communication among responder agencies in the State.
The CEO of Pariwo Community Safety, Paul-Bishop Kihodu introduced the Pariwo Kits, a device designed to aid prevention of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence during the meeting.
The programme also featured various sessions including “SGBV and the journey so far – Data Speaks” by Mrs. Oluwatumininu Oni, Head of the Case Management Department at DSVA; “Overview of Activities of the Family Support Unit” by the Officer-in-Charge of the Gender Desk Department at Lagos State Police Command, Mr. Lawrence Ojo and “Adapting and Responding to SGBV Emerging Trends” by Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, Executive Director of Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre.