The Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (MWAPA), has intensified efforts to provide mental health support for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in the state.
The ministry, through its Domestic Violence Unit (DVU), organised a one-day awareness and sensitisation programme on mental health for survivors of SGBV at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Alausa.
The programme brought together key stakeholders, professionals, religious leaders and participants to address the growing need for mental health care, healing and resilience for survivors of abuse and violence.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Bolaji Dada, said the effects of gender-based violence go beyond physical injuries, noting that emotional and psychological trauma often has long-lasting consequences.
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She stressed the need to prioritise mental wellbeing as a critical part of survivors’ recovery and reintegration, adding that the theme of the programme, “Building Resilience and Gaining Access to Services,” aligns with the state’s THEMES Plus Agenda, particularly in the areas of social inclusion, human capital development and responsive governance.
Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Rianat Onigbanjo, described the programme as impactful and reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to strengthening access to mental health support services for survivors of gender-based violence.
She commended the commissioner for her leadership and policy direction in promoting the protection, empowerment and holistic wellbeing of women and vulnerable persons in Lagos State.
Onigbanjo appreciated survivors for their courage in sharing their experiences and assured them of the ministry’s continued support towards healing, recovery and empowerment. She also commended media partners for amplifying awareness on mental health and gender-based violence.
During the programme, facilitators from the Lagos State Employee and Wellness Centre educated participants on the concept and 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 also highlighted the mental health implications of gender-based violence, with emphasis on depression, and discussed prevention and management strategies, encouraging self-awareness, healthy boundary-setting, regular exercise and seeking professional help without fear or stigma.
Participants were further enlightened on trauma management, coping mechanisms, counselling services and available support structures within Lagos State, and were urged to report abuse through designated helplines.
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to sustained collaboration with relevant stakeholders to promote a safer, more inclusive and resilient Lagos State where survivors of gender-based violence receive timely care, protection and support.