Lagos State Government, through its Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), has revealed that 2,213 girls suffered different forms of abuse between September 2024 and August 2025.
Gatekeepers News reports that was disclosed by the Executive Secretary of the Agency, Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, during an interview with News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Lagos.
Vivour-Adeniyi noted that as the world marked the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child on October 11, reflecting on the challenges facing young girls and strengthening collective action to safeguard them was important.
She said, “In the past one year, the agency provided services to 8,692 survivors. Out of these, 3,629 were children. Of the 3,629 children, 60 per cent were female and 40 per cent male.”
“The 60 per cent represent 2,213 girls who suffered physical, sexual, emotional, or neglect-related abuse.”
She noted that children between zero and nine years old remain the most vulnerable to different forms of violence.
According to her, the DSVA ensures that both abused children and those who have witnessed violence receive psychosocial support through various therapeutic interventions, including play therapy.
Vivour-Adeniyi emphasised that the agency offers comprehensive care—covering medical attention, counseling, and rescue services where necessary.
She said, “Sometimes, we have to relocate children or families from their environment, especially when the issue becomes public within the community.”
The DSVA official noted that some cases involved parents as perpetrators, stressing that the agency collaborates closely with the Ministry of Youth and Social Development during investigations.
She added, “Where assessments show that a child remains at risk if kept in the home, the child is removed and placed in protective custody until a safe reunion can be achieved with a trusted family member.”
Vivour-Adeniyi reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to protecting children from all forms of abuse, stressing that violence must never be normalized and that conflict can always be resolved through peaceful means.
