In a decisive move to combat the prevalence of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) within tertiary institutions, the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has officially launched the Purple Lagos Campus Activation.
This ambitious initiative seeks to reach over 15,000 students across 15 public and private higher institutions in Lagos State between April and July 2026.
The campaign was flagged off on Tuesday, April 15th, 2026, at the Lagos State College of Health Technology. The choice of a health-focused venue was intentional, highlighting the vital role future healthcare professionals play in identifying and supporting survivors of abuse.
Fostering Safe Spaces in Higher Education
Speaking at the launch, the Executive Secretary of Lagos DSVA, Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, emphasized that tertiary environments are not immune to the realities of SGBV. She noted that students navigating independence for the first time are often a vulnerable demographic that requires targeted protection and education.
“Our campuses must become safe spaces, not just in policy, but in practice,” Vivour-Adeniyi stated. “The Purple Lagos Campus Activation is our commitment to ensuring that every student across Lagos State understands what Sexual and Gender-Based Violence looks like, knows their rights, and is equipped with the knowledge of where to seek help.”
Institutional Support and Strategic Engagement
The initiative received strong backing from academic leadership. Dr. Oluronke Islamiyyat Agoro, Deputy Provost of the Lagos State College of Health Technology, reaffirmed the institution’s dedication to student welfare.
“As educators, our responsibility extends beyond the classroom, and we are proud to work with Lagos DSVA in ensuring that our students are informed, protected, and empowered to speak up against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence,” Dr. Agoro remarked.
A Multi-Dimensional Approach to Prevention
The activation is designed to be highly interactive, moving beyond passive messaging to create real engagement. The program features sensitization sessions, survivor-centered conversations, and direct collaboration with student unions and campus health units.
To ensure long-term impact, students are being provided with clear referral pathways and access to the Agency’s 24-hour confidential helpline. The campaign’s scope is inclusive, covering a diverse array of institutions including universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education to ensure no student is left behind regardless of their academic discipline or socioeconomic background.
As the DSVA prepares to visit the remaining 14 institutions over the coming months, the Agency maintains that fostering a culture of accountability and zero tolerance is essential to building a safer, more resilient Lagos.
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