Lagos Partners with Private Sector to Combat Gender-Based Violence

Lagos, Nigeria — In a decisive move to address the growing concern of domestic and sexual violence, the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has partnered with AXA Mansard Insurance Plc to promote awareness and education, especially in defense of the girl child.

The announcement was made in a statement issued by Mr. Olusesan Ogunyooye, Head of Marketing at AXA Mansard, and made available in Lagos.

Highlighting the urgency of the issue, Ogunyooye stressed that the fight against gender-based violence demands a collaborative, multi-level approach involving communities, institutions, and government structures.

“For us at AXA Mansard, the future should not be at risk. Protecting children, especially the girl child, is critical to safeguarding our collective future,” he stated. “This year’s AXA Week for Good provided a timely platform to join forces with the DSVA in confronting the menace of sexual and domestic violence.”

Ogunyooye commended the DSVA for its impactful work in Lagos, describing the collaboration as an opportunity to advance mutual goals in eliminating violence against vulnerable populations.

Referring to findings from the 2014 National Survey on Violence Against Children, he expressed alarm at the prevalence of abuse, particularly within spaces meant to ensure safety, such as homes and schools.

He emphasized that the current edition of AXA Week for Good, themed “Being a Girl Shouldn’t Be a Risk,” seeks to shine a spotlight on the widespread consequences of gender-based violence.

Speaking on the partnership, Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, Executive Secretary of DSVA, welcomed the initiative, noting that public-private collaborations are crucial in reinforcing Lagos State’s zero-tolerance policy on sexual and gender-based violence.

She reaffirmed DSVA’s commitment to providing strategic support and expertise to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of such impactful initiatives.

The statement concluded with a joint pledge by both organizations to work towards a society where every girl can grow up safe, respected, and empowered.

By Adeola Olaniya | June 1, 2025