The Lagos State Government (LASG), through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (MWAPA), has stepped up efforts to strengthen mental health support for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) across the state.
As part of this drive, the ministry, through its Domestic Violence Unit (DVU), organised a one-day awareness and sensitisation programme on mental health for SGBV survivors at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Alausa.
The programme brought together key stakeholders, mental health professionals, religious leaders and survivors to address the growing need for psychological care, healing and resilience among victims of abuse and violence.
Speaking at the event, Bolaji Dada, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, said the impact of gender-based violence extends far beyond physical harm, noting that emotional and psychological trauma often leaves long-lasting scars.
She stressed that mental well-being must be prioritised as a critical component of survivors’ recovery and reintegration into society. According to her, the programme’s theme, “Building Resilience and Gaining Access to Services,” aligns with the state’s THEMES Plus Agenda, particularly its focus on social inclusion, human capital development and responsive governance.
Rianat Onigbanjo, Permanent Secretary of the ministry, described the programme as impactful and reaffirmed MWAPA’s commitment to improving access to mental health services for survivors of gender-based violence.
She commended the commissioner for her leadership and policy direction in advancing the protection, empowerment and holistic wellbeing of women and other vulnerable groups in Lagos State.
Onigbanjo also praised survivors for their courage in sharing their experiences, assuring them of the ministry’s continued support towards healing, recovery and empowerment. She further acknowledged the role of the media in amplifying awareness around mental health and gender-based violence.
During the programme, facilitators from the Lagos State Employee and Wellness Centre educated participants on the various forms of gender-based violence, including emotional, economic and physical abuse, as well as harmful practices such as female genital mutilation and denial of inheritance rights.
They highlighted the mental health implications of such abuse, particularly depression, and discussed prevention and management strategies. Participants were encouraged to practice self-awareness, set healthy boundaries, engage in regular physical activity and seek professional help without fear or stigma.
The session also focused on trauma management, coping mechanisms, counselling services and existing support structures within Lagos State. Survivors were urged to report abuse through designated helplines and official channels.
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to sustained collaboration with relevant stakeholders to build a safer, more inclusive and resilient Lagos State, one where survivors of gender-based violence receive timely care, protection and comprehensive support.
