The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has concluded a series of capacity-building workshops for over 700 Safeguarding and Child Protection Officers, aimed at strengthening the prevention, identification, and response to Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) and child abuse in schools across Lagos State.

Held between 29 January and 5 February 2026 at Amuwo Senior Grammar School (Education District V), Dolphin High School (Education District III), and the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), the workshops brought together teachers, guidance counsellors, and designated safeguarding officers from public secondary schools.

In collaboration with key stakeholders, participants received practical training on safeguarding policies, survivor-centred approaches, referral pathways, and emerging risks such as technology-facilitated SGBV.

The Executive Secretary of DSVA, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, emphasised that safeguarding children is a moral, legal, and professional responsibility, highlighting schools as a critical first line of defence against abuse.

Expert-led sessions delivered by child protection specialists covered SGBV awareness, consent, early warning signs, survivor-centred communication, safeguarding policy implementation, and the legal obligation to report abuse under the Child Rights Act and Lagos State Safeguarding Policy.

Participants were also trained on referral pathways, early reporting within the first 72 hours, and access to free medical, psychosocial, legal, and protective services.

DSVA reaffirmed its commitment to continuous capacity building and multi-sector collaboration to ensure safe, inclusive, and child-friendly learning environments across Lagos State.