By Luqmon Balogun, Lagos
The Lagos Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, DSVA, recently welcomed consultants from the European Union as they visited the Gender-Based Violence Virtual and Referral Service (GBV VRRS) Service Centre. The purpose of their visit was to monitor and learn from the agency’s operations.
The DSVA team, led by Executive Secretary Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, engaged in an interactive session with the visiting consultants. Vivour-Adeniyi took the opportunity to highlight the impact of the European Union Funded Spotlight initiative, focusing specifically on the Gender-Based Violence Virtual and Referral Service.
During the discussion, Vivour-Adeniyi revealed that since its establishment in January 2021, the GBV VRRS has provided services to over 4,105 survivors and conducted more than 165 rescue missions. Access to the services is available 24/7, 365 days a year through the agency’s toll-free number, 0-8000-333-333. This ensures survivors have access to professional help and all-encompassing services.
Expressing her gratitude for the European Union Funded Spotlight initiative, as well as other United Nations technical partners, Vivour-Adeniyi also acknowledged the support and partnership of Dr. Oke Osanyintolu, the Permanent Secretary, and the Lagos State Emergency Management Authority (LASEMA).
While emphasizing the commitment of the State Government to providing holistic care and support to survivors, Vivour-Adeniyi reiterated Lagos State’s determination to minimize the prevalence of gender-based violence.
The visiting consultants, Mr. Mark McGinty and Dr. Tarila Marclint Ebeide, are from HRBA Expert Conflict Sensitivity, Human Rights, and gender mainstreaming for the European Union.
