The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting survivors of domestic and sexual violence, urging them to reclaim their voices, rebuild their lives and embrace a future filled with hope.
The Agency made the commitment on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, during its commemoration of Survivor’s Day 2026, held at Protea Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos. The event was themed “Survivor’s Day: Breaking the Cycle, Building Hope.”
The programme brought together survivors and key stakeholders for discussions on healing, empowerment, resilience and the support systems required to help survivors move beyond their experiences of violence.
In her opening remarks, the Executive Secretary of DSVA, Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, said survivors must remain at the centre of interventions addressing domestic and sexual violence.
She stressed the importance of creating an environment where survivors feel supported, heard and empowered to rebuild their lives, while appreciating Wema Bank, Poweroil and Kisskid for their support and partnership towards the success of the programme.
Delivering the keynote address, a Couple, Sex and Mental Health Therapist, Dr. Tolulope Oko-Igale, spoke on “Healing After Violence: Reclaiming Your Voice, Identity and Future.” She highlighted the emotional impact of violence and the importance of healing, self-worth and rebuilding one’s identity after abuse.
The event also highlighted economic empowerment as an important pathway towards breaking the cycle of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).
Speaking on the subject, the Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund, Mrs. Feyisola Alayande, emphasised the importance of economic opportunities and financial independence in helping survivors regain stability and build sustainable futures.
A major highlight of the programme was the “Survivor Spotlight”, themed “My Journey from Survival to Hope.” The session provided an opportunity for a survivor to share her personal experience, highlighting the strength and courage involved in rebuilding life after violence.
The programme also featured a wellness session facilitated by Holistic Movement and Wellness Coach, Ms. Oyinkan Talabi, and an interactive session led by Mrs. Ifeoma Nwonu of DSVA Programmes, providing participants with opportunities to reflect, engage and share their experiences.
The Agency noted that Survivor’s Day goes beyond celebrating survivors, serving as a reminder of the collective responsibility to strengthen support systems, promote survivor-centred responses and ensure that no survivor is left to navigate the recovery process alone.
DSVA reiterated that surviving violence is not the end of the journey, stressing that with appropriate support, opportunities and safe spaces, survivors can rebuild their lives with dignity, purpose and hope.
