By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
The Lagos State Government has intensified calls for comprehensive mental health support for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (GBV), as the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation organised a one-day awareness and sensitisation programme focused on healing and resilience.
The programme, organised through the ministry’s Domestic Violence Unit, was held on Thursday, 15 January, 2026 at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Alausa.
It brought together key stakeholders, mental health professionals, religious leaders and participants to highlight the psychological impact of abuse and the urgent need for accessible support services for survivors across the state.
Speaking at the event, the state Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Bolaji Dada, stressed that the consequences of gender-based violence go far beyond physical injuries. She explained that emotional and psychological trauma often lasts longer and can affect survivors’ ability to rebuild their lives.
According to Dada, prioritising mental wellbeing, healing and resilience is critical to the recovery and reintegration of survivors.
She added that the programme’s theme, “Building Resilience and Gaining Access to Services,” reflects the state government’s commitment under the THEMES Plus Agenda, particularly in promoting social inclusion, strengthening human capital development and ensuring responsive governance.
The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Rianat Onigbanjo, described the sensitisation programme as both insightful and impactful.
She reaffirmed the ministry’s resolve to expand and strengthen access to mental health support services for survivors of gender-based violence across Lagos State.
During the programme, participants were educated on trauma management, coping strategies and counselling services, as well as other support structures available within the state. They were also encouraged to seek professional help without fear of stigma or discrimination.
The initiative underscores the Lagos State Government’s broader effort to address gender-based violence holistically by combining physical protection measures with sustained psychological care, aimed at restoring dignity, confidence and wellbeing to survivors.
