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Every October 6 has been dubbed as World Habitat by the UN General Assembly since 1985.

The theme for this year’s celebration, ‘Urban Crisis Response: Flooding in Focus,’ has resonated with Lagos State Government, as it called for an urgent attention to the need to prepare cities, towns and communities to withstand shocks from floods, chaotic planning and development.

At the commemoration of the event, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu called for greater collaboration on flood-resilient measures to protect lives and livelihoods and strengthen the state capacity to adapt to the impacts of climate change.

The governor, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, made the call at the World Habitat Day 2025 celebration, held yesterday.

He said this year’s theme, ‘Urban Crisis Response: Flooding in Focus’, reflected the realities of Lagos as a coastal megacity and underscored the need for decisive and sustained action.

He said flooding had become a persistent urban challenge that demanded proactive long-term planning, sustainable investment, and active community engagement.

Sanwo-Olu said urban resilience had been a core component of the state’s development framework, the T.H.E.M.E.S. + Agenda, with the Lagos State Resilience Office (LASRO) coordinating policies and projects that mitigated flood risks.

He urged private investors, development partners and innovators to cooperate for sustainable and resilient Lagos, especially in climate adaptation and mangrove restoration in coastal areas, as exemplified by the worthy partnership of the Dangote Group.

‘Investing in flood-resilient housing, smart drainage systems, renewable energy and urban-risk insurance will safeguard communities, while creating new avenues for growth,’ he said.

He added that his administration’s goal was to make Lagos not only livable, but also sustainable for future generations.

Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Development, Dr. Oluyinka Olumide, described World Habitat Day as an opportunity for governments and citizens to reflect on the state of human settlements and reaffirm commitment to sustainable urban planning.

He said flooding in Lagos was not theoretical, but a live experience that demanded proactive governance, stronger enforcement of development regulations, and integration of climate adaptation principles into urban design.

Olumide emphasised that physical planning was beyond permits and building approvals, as it embraced community resilience, sustainable construction practices, and inclusive development.

He lauded Governor Sanwo-Olu’s leadership for prioritising infrastructure renewal, flood control and dignified housing delivery across the state.

Permanent Secretary, Office of Physical Planning, Oluwole Sotire, an engineer, appreciated partners, youth participants and stakeholders for contributing to the success of the event, while reaffirming the state government’s resolve to deepen collaboration with sectors to build a more sustainable and flood-resilient Lagos.

Goodwill messages were given by the Special Adviser, e-GIS and Urban Development, Dr. Olajide Babatunde, Chairman, Association of Town Planning Consultants (ATOPCON), Hakeem Badejo and Chairman, Nigeria Institute of Town Planners, Lagos State chapter, Dele Akindele.

The 2025 World Habitat Day celebration featured expert lectures, exhibitions and youth debates showcasing innovative solutions in housing, flood management and environmental sustainability.

Super Eagles’ preparations for their upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Lesotho and Benin has been hindered due to visa issue.

Seven newly invited players are reportedly stranded without entry visas to South Africa, where Coach Eric Sekou Chelle and some of his technical staff are already present for this crucial assignment.

The team’s training camp at The Ranch Hotel in Polokwane was scheduled to commence today, following its opening yesterday, but the absence of these players means full squad training will likely be delayed until the day before the match due to this organizational hiccup.

‘There’s a major organisational hiccup as it concerns entry visas to South Africa – at least seven players cannot be in that country before Wednesday because of this,’ a top source reportedly told SCORENigeria. ‘It means there may not be full squad training until possibly a day to the match. This is catastrophic!’

According to the news outlet, the majority of players from last month’s qualifiers were granted three-month multiple entry visas, the newly invited players and several recalled ones are experiencing complications.

But our correspondent gathered last night that only three players might be significantly affected. However, the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) is reportedly addressing the situation to ensure the affected players can join the squad in time.

Among the notable names in the 23-man squad announced by Chelle are Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen, who returns after injury, as well as prominent players like Alex Iwobi and William Troost-Ekong. Additionally, Sevilla star Akor Adams is set to make his senior debut for the national team.

Currently, Nigeria occupies the third position in Group C, with 11 points, trailing behind leaders Benin Republic and South Africa. The Super Eagles are hopeful of securing an automatic qualification spot, particularly following FIFA’s recent penalties against South Africa for fielding an ineligible player against Lesotho.

SUPER EAGLES’ SQUAD FOR LESOTHO, BENIN:

Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali (Chippa United, South Africa), Amas Obasogie (Singida Blackstars, Tanzania), Adebayo Adeleye (Volos FC, Greece)

Defenders: William Troost-Ekong (Al-Kholood, Saudi Arabia), Calvin Bassey (Fulham, England), Semi Ajayi (Hull City, England), Bright Osayi-Samuel (Birmingham City, England), Bruno Onyemaechi (Olympiakos, Greece), Felix Agu (Werder Bremen, Germany), Benjamin Fredrick (Dender, Belgium)

Midfielders: Alex Iwobi (Fulham, England), Frank Onyeka (Brentford, England), Alhassan Yusuf (New England Revolution, USA), Wilfred Ndidi (Besiktas, Turkey)

Forwards: Ademola Lookman (Atalanta, Italy), Samuel Chukwueze (Fulham, England), Victor Osimhen (Galatasaray, Turkey), Moses Simon (Paris FC, France), C Tolu Arokodare (Wolves, England), Terem Moffi (OGC Nice, France), Akor Adams (Sevilla, Spain), Olakunle Olusegun (Pari Nizhny Novgorod, Russia)

Africa is not just participating in the global creative conversation, it is shaping it, drawing significant strength from the Pitcher Showcase Lagos, a vibrant celebration of African excellence in marketing communications.

Chairman of the Pitcher Festival, Dr. Nnamdi Ndu, made this declaration when operators on the continent’s creative industry gathered at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Ikeja GRA, Lagos, for the Pitcher Showcase Lagos, during the week.

The event featured a curated exhibition, the official presentation of the Pitcher Special Awards, and recognition of emerging talent through the Academy Awards Segment.

Ndu, in his opening remarks, reflected on the evolution of the Pitcher Awards into one of Africa’s most respected platforms for creative excellence.

‘Africa is not just participating in the global creative conversation, we are shaping it,’ he declared, referencing the Pitcher Showcase’s presence in Cannes during the Cannes Lions Festival earlier this year.

The Awards Segment was hosted by renowned journalist and media personality, Dr. Rufai Oseni, who guided guests through the celebration of top-performing agencies, networks, brands, and marketing companies.

The Special Awards, determined by the Pitcher Awards points system, were presented by the Director General, Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON), Dr. Olalekan Fadolapo.

Winners of the 2025 Pitcher Special Award were PHD Nigeria, Media Agency of the Year; Dentsu Creative Kenya, Advertising Agency of the Year; OMD, Media Network of the Year; Dentsu Africa, Advertising Agency Network of the Year; X3M Ideas, Independent Network of the Year.

Others were Omnicom Media Group Africa, Regional Holding Company of the Year; Tusker Lager Kenya, Brand of the Year (National); Martell, Brand of the Year (Multinational); NCBA, Marketing Company of the Year (National); and Pernod Ricard, Marketing Company of the Year (Multinational).

The Academy Awards Segment honored winners from the Future Creative Leaders Academy (FCLA), and the Young Pitcher Competition.

Ndu emphasised that these awards are not just accolades but endorsements of systems that enable creativity to thrive.

Presentations were made by President of Upticomm Marketing Co. Ltd. and immediate past Chairman of Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Lagos, Mr. Segun McMedal, who represented NIPR President Dr. Ike Neliaku.

Participants from Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Benin, and Burkina Faso were celebrated for their outstanding contributions and creative promise. Also recognised were winners of the National Young Lions Competition.

Although visa challenges prevented most winners from competing in Cannes this year, all affected teams have been rebooked for the 2026 Young Lions Competition.

The programme included a visual exhibition of Grand Prix and Gold-winning campaigns, academy entries, and a screening of the Pitcher Awards reel.

Attendees enjoyed networking, refreshments, and a shared sense of pride in the continent’s creative achievements.

The organizsers appreciated Tolaram Nigeria for their generous support, providing products from their Indomie and Colgate stables for inclusion in the winners’ gift bags.

Registration for the 2026 Pitcher Academies opened on October 1st, with a call to agencies and brands to partner in nurturing the next generation of African creative leaders.

President Bola Tinubu has explained why his administration established the N200 billion intervention fund to support micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and manufacturers.

Tinubu, represented by the Vice-President Kashim Shettima, stated this in Abuja on Monday at the 31st Nigerian Economic Summit, organised by the Nigerian Economic Summit Group.

The president said it had become necessary to assist them in boosting competitiveness and addressing structural challenges.

He said beyond the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth of 4.23 per cent recorded in September 2025, the economic reforms spearheaded by his administration had started yielding tangible results across sectors.

According to him, it has surpassed projections from multilateral agencies and indigenous economic experts.

The president maintained that all the decisions taken by his administration had been ‘guided by the pursuit of balance between economic logic and public expectation.’

Tinubu restated his administration’s resolve to rekindle hope for poor, vulnerable and jobless Nigerians by creating corridors for them, especially the youth, to access loans, grants and equity investments.

He said, ‘ As a people-oriented government, our priority remains restoring hope to the unemployed, the poor, the excluded, and the vulnerable.

‘ We have created pathways for young Nigerians to access grants, loans, and equity investments of up to 100,000 dollars to scale their enterprises, innovate, and build sustainable livelihoods.

‘We established a N200 billion intervention fund to support micro, small, and medium enterprises and manufacturers, helping them overcome structural challenges and enhance competitiveness.

‘Our expansion of digital micro-loan access has improved financial inclusion, empowering small businesses and stimulating community-level productivity.

‘These efforts underline our commitment to an economy that works for all Nigerians.’

The Nigerian leader attributed the significant progress his administration has made so far in stabilising Nigeria’s economy and rescuing public finance to the patience and sacrifices made by Nigerians.

‘As experts in the economy, you know more than the average citizen that the stability in our foreign exchange market is not accidental.

‘ It reflects deliberate choices guided by the same economic wisdom that gatherings such as this embody.

‘Along with subsidy removal, these decisions have rescued our public finances, stabilised the economy, and reassured investors at home and abroad.

‘ We owe this progress to the sacrifices of Nigerians, whose patience and understanding have been the bedrock of our endurance.

‘To them, I say: the better days we promised are already within sight,’ he stated.

Tinubu acknowledged what he described as a ‘resounding consensus’ that ongoing reforms by his administration had stabilised the nation’s macroeconomic environment, with the economy ‘expanding to N372.8 trillion in 2024, up from N309.5 trillion in 2023.’

Tinubu said, ‘Our total revenue collection also rose from N19.9 trillion in 2023 to N25.2 trillion in 2024, and as of August 2025, it had reached N27.8 trillion, surpassing the revenue target of N18.32 trillion.

‘These triumphs and projections are guided by the promise we have made to the nation – to grow Nigeria’s debt service-to-revenue ratio from 97 per cent, where we met it, to a sustainable level.

‘Aside from the good news that this ratio has now reduced to less than 50 per cent, I am proud to share that this performance, in our early days in office, inspired Fitch to upgrade Nigeria’s sovereign rating to B, with a stable outlook, and Moody’s to lift our issuer rating to B3 with a stable outlook.

‘Both praised our improved economic foresight and clearer policy direction as their barometers.’

For non-oil revenues, the president said it grew by 411 per cent year on year in August this year, with tax-to-GDP ratio now nudging 13.5 per cent, up from barely seven per cent a few years ago.

The president assured that the four Tax Reform Acts he recently signed into law would boost domestic revenue mobilisation, reduce dependence on oil, and simplify compliance.

‘These reforms protect low-income earners, ensure fairness in corporate taxation, and strengthen digital innovation in tax administration.

‘ By promoting transparency and coordination among all tiers of government, we are laying the foundation for a fairer and more prosperous Nigeria,’ Tinubu added.

The Chairman of the NESG, Mr Olaniyi Yusuf, advised the relevant stakeholders and authorities to address security as an enabler of reforms.

He said that without peace, reforms cannot take root, investors cannot take risks, and Nigerian youths cannot find opportunities for prosperity.

‘Tackling insecurity in rural and urban areas alike is vital to unlock productivity and restore confidence,’ he added.

The highly anticipated Pan-African crime thriller 3 Cold Dishes premiered to a sold-out audience of 1,757 guests at Indigo at The O2, London.

Directed by award-winning filmmaker Asurf Oluseyi and executive produced by Bose Ogulu, Damini ‘Burna Boy’ Ogulu, and Osas Ighodaro, the film captivated viewers with its gripping tale of survival, sisterhood, and revenge.

The evening opened with a lively red carpet hosted by Shank Comics and Hakeem, featuring appearances by lead actress Osas Ighodaro, whose poise set the tone for the night, alongside co-stars Fat Toure, Maud Guerard, Ruby Akubueze, Taiwo Adeyemi, Amelie Mbaye, and veteran actor Wale Ojo.

Legendary Congolese musician Awilo Longomba added star power to the event, highlighting the film’s Pan-African spirit.

Other notable attendees included Hakka Da Host, Nissi, Boma Akpore, Yvonne Jegede, KC Obiajulu, and several influencers, media figures, and industry personalities.

Following the screening, guests engaged in a post-show conversation with Burna Boy, Nissi Ogulu, Namix, Ronami Ogulu, and director Asurf Oluseyi, moderated by Dr. Suzaan McLean. The night concluded with an exclusive VIP reception.

Set across Nigeria, the Republic of Benin, and Côte d’Ivoire, 3 Cold Dishes takes audiences on a bold cinematic journey exploring the dark realities of sex trafficking and the unyielding quest for justice.

The production unites a diverse Pan-African cast and crew, reaffirming the strength and creativity of African cinema.

3 Cold Dishes opens to the public on November 7, 2025, in Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Cameroon, and the UK, and on November 28 across Francophone countries and other parts of the world.

The 4th Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Unity Basketball Championship ended on Sunday with Hoops and Read defeating Police Baton 55-52 to claim the title.

Twelve elite teams from the South-West states competed fiercely for honours in the week-long championship.

In the final, Hoops and Read displayed composure and organisation, dictating the pace of the match from start to finish at the indoor sports hall.

Their superior ball control and teamwork kept them ahead, as Police Baton committed multiple turnovers and costly errors in the second and third quarters.

The first quarter ended 12-12, but Police Baton lost focus in the second, allowing Hoops and Read to take control with 17-8 and 14-9 quarter wins.

In spite of a late rally by Police Baton, led by veteran Kayode Balogun, their 13-11 final-quarter surge was not enough to overturn the deficit.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, commended the players for their display of ‘talent, resilience, and teamwork,’ describing the tournament as a reflection of Nigeria’s unity and determination.

‘The past few days have showcased our strength and perseverance as a people,’ General Musa said. ‘This event, held in commemoration of our Independence Day, reaffirms our collective spirit and demonstrates how sports can foster national security and unity through a non-kinetic approach.’

Head Coach of Hoops and Read, Dossou Mensah, said it was a tough game that required resilience and tactical discipline to secure victory.

‘We knew it wouldn’t be an easy match. Police Baton have great experience, but our turnaround in the second quarter gave us confidence,’ he said.

Police Baton’s Head Coach, Jonathan Odia, however, criticized the officiating, voicing his disappointment over what he called inconsistent refereeing.

Oluyole Warriors clinched third place after defeating Delta Force of Warri 68-55 in an entertaining bronze-medal contest.

Hoops and Read received ?2 million as champions, while Police Baton and Oluyole Warriors earned ?1.5 million and ?1 million respectively.

A long-running family dispute over the vast estate of the late Chief Harrison Jefia has escalated into a criminal trial, with the ninth child of the deceased and cleric, Joseph Jefia, now standing before a Federal High Court in Abuja for alleged forgery and fraudulent claim of inheritance.

The case with next hearing date fixed for October 23, is under charge No. FHC/ABJ/CR/501/2024, where the Federal Government is the complainant and Joseph Jefia is the defendant.

Mrs. Onoriode Lyn James (née Jefia), the United Kingdom-based eldest child of the late Chief Jefia, had petitioned the Pastor-in-Charge of Region 23 of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, where her half-brother, Joseph Jefia pastors a church, accusing him of illegally taking control of the family’s assets shortly after their father’s death in 2003.

These assets include more than 100 housing units, a mansion in Effurun, multiple country homes, large tracts of land, cash in various banks, and a road contract valued at N1.2 billion.

According to Mrs. James, Pastor Jefia and his siblings allegedly broke into their late father’s residence while the patriarch was on his deathbed, taking possession of all personal and business documents.

Investigations by law enforcement and forensic experts revealed that the document was fraudulent and unregistered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), in violation of the Companies and Allied Matters Act.

The police subsequently charged Pastor Jefia for presenting the forged document in defense of his actions during a dispute involving his half-sister, whom he allegedly harassed during a visit to the family property in Effurun.

Court records show that the family had already shared the landed properties of the late Chief Jefia based on traditional arrangements and legal proceedings.

Despite this, Pastor Joseph is accused of continuing to collect rent from properties not allocated to him and allegedly selling plots of land belonging to other heirs.

The matter, which has spanned more than 22 years, has now reached a turning point with criminal charges brought against the pastor. The trial continues this month, with court dates scheduled for October 23.

Mrs. James has called on the leadership of RCCG, where Pastor Jefia is said to have served in various regions including Kolokolo/Enerhen and PTI, to intervene and uphold the church’s moral standards.

‘Our father left enough for every one of his children to prosper. But Joseph’s greed, enabled by forged documents and disregard for family and tradition, has robbed us of justice for over two decades,’ she said.

The United Bank for Africa (UBA) Plc has reaffirmed its commitment to exceeding customer expectations through continuous investment in technology, people, and operational efficiency, as it celebrates its 2025 Customer Service Week under the global theme ‘Mission: Possible.’

The Pan-African bank said the annual event underscores its Customer 1st philosophy, a guiding principle that places customer experience at the centre of its operations and innovations.

Speaking at the launch of the celebration, UBA’s Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Oliver Alawuba, said the bank’s approach to service is built on a clear understanding of the diverse challenges faced by its customers across African markets and beyond.

He said: ‘As Africa’s global bank, we understand the unique challenges our customers face across different markets. That is why we are constantly investing in technology, people, and processes that make banking easier, faster, and more rewarding.

‘This week is not just about celebrating our customers, but about renewing our pledge to make the impossible possible for them, because at UBA, we remain committed to not just meeting expectations; but we are also committed to exceeding them.’

Alawuba explained that the 2025 theme, ‘Mission: Possible,’ aligns with the bank’s vision of transforming challenges into opportunities through innovation and strategic digital transformation.

Also speaking, the Group Head, Customer Experience, Michelle Nwoga, noted that this year’s celebration reflects a renewed focus on deepening customer engagement and expanding access to value-driven services across all touchpoints.

‘At UBA, our mission is clear: to make the seemingly impossible possible for our customers. Whether it is enabling cross-border transactions in real time, ensuring seamless digital access to banking, or supporting small businesses to scale against the odds, we are committed to delivering service that transforms lives. This week is a celebration of that mission, and of the customers who inspire us to raise the bar every day,’ she said.

According to the bank’s leadership, UBA’s innovation record speaks for itself. The bank, it added, was the first Pan-African financial institution to introduce a 24/7 multilingual contact centre, pioneer Africa’s first AI-powered virtual banker, Leo, and drive cross-continental remittances that connect millions of Africans in the diaspora with their home markets.

Beyond banking, the 2025 Customer Service Week will feature a series of mission-driven initiatives that highlight UBA’s commitment to community and economic development. These include business empowerment sessions for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), financial literacy workshops, and participation opportunities in the UBA National Essay Competition for Senior Secondary Schools – initiatives designed to build resilience and future readiness among customers and young Nigerians.

With a customer base of over 45 million across 20 African countries, and operations in New York, London, Paris, and Dubai, UBA, its leadership said, continues to position itself as a bridge between Africa and the global financial system, offering retail, commercial, and corporate banking, alongside innovative trade finance and cross-border payment solutions.

Alawuba emphasised that UBA’s success story is driven by its ability to adapt, innovate, and deliver value beyond conventional banking.

‘At UBA, we are building a future where every challenge becomes an opportunity. Through innovation, resilience, and a relentless focus on customer needs, we are proving that great service is not just possible – it’s our mission,’ he said.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has congratulated the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dr. Dele Alake, on his 69th birthday yesterday.

The President described him as a dependable ally, consummate strategist, and a loyal patriot whose contributions to national development span decades.

In a statement yesterday in Abuja by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu eulogised Dr. Alake for his long-standing record of excellence in journalism, public service, and strategic communication.

The President also described the minister as one of the most accomplished professionals of his generation.

He recalled their long years of friendship and partnership anchored on shared values of service, integrity, and commitment to Nigeria’s progress.

‘Dr. Dele Alake has remained a committed, loyal, and outstanding ally for several decades. His steadfastness and unyielding commitment to national development and progress stand him out as a patriot,’ the President said.

President Tinubu also applauded the minister’s ongoing efforts to reposition the solid minerals sector as a major revenue earner for the country.

He said Alake’s reforms – including investment promotion, policy innovation, and the integration of artisanal miners into the formal economy – align with the goals of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

‘On this special day, I pray that Almighty God will continue to bless Dele with good health, wisdom, and strength,’ President Tinubu added.

Alake, a veteran journalist and former Commissioner for Information and Strategy in Lagos State, has been a long-time associate of President Tinubu since the 1990s and currently leads the administration’s drive to harness Nigeria’s mineral wealth for sustainable development.

The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) has hosted civil society organisations (CSOs) with a call for stronger partnerships in addressing sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV).

The programme, held at Protea Hotel, Ikeja, with the theme, ‘Enhancing the Role of Government and Civil Society Organisations in Survivor-Centred SGBV,’ was part of activities marking the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Awareness Month.

Executive Secretary of DSVA, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, said the theme was inspired by the need to entrench a survivor-centred approach in service delivery.

She said: ‘This year’s theme is born out of the need to ensure that as government and as civil society organisations, we continue to ensure a survival-centred approach is adopted when we are providing services to survivors of sexual and gender-based violence.

‘Our strategic partnership with civil society organisations cannot be over-emphasised because no one ministry, department or agency can provide all the services that survivors require. The NGOs are in the communities; sometimes they even serve as first responders. It is important for us to strengthen our partnership, embark on learning exercises and always keep abreast of best practices.’

Vivour-Adeniyi said that beyond policies, government and lawmakers must create an enabling environment for survivors to break the culture of silence.

‘This is one of the reasons why survivors do not speak up, because of stigma and the culture of silence. As government and civil society organisations, we all have a role to play in ensuring that survivors have enough courage, faith in the system, and are informed about what to do post-trauma,’ she said.

Addressing survivors directly, she reassured them that they were not alone.

‘We want survivors to know that, number one, it’s not your fault, you are not to blame. If you have experienced any form of sexual and gender-based violence, the Lagos State government believes you, you are not alone. We encourage you to speak up so that you can access medical, legal, psychosocial, counselling, empowerment and, more importantly, access to justice,’ she said.

Also speaking, the Executive Director of the Centre for Women’s Health and Information (CEWHIN), Atinuke Odukoya, emphasised the critical role of civil society in amplifying survivors’ voices and connecting them to support services.

‘CSOs are like catalysts that ensure everything goes on well for the survivor. They support government institutions and provide the information that is required, helping people know the referral pathways, where to go, who to speak with, and how to seek help. Many survivors don’t even know what to do when abuse occurs, so CSOs bridge that gap and sometimes even handhold the survivors through the process,’ she said.

According to her, CSOs not only provide guidance but also direct services to survivors, including counselling, advocacy, and referrals to justice and healthcare systems.

On community involvement, Odukoya stressed the need for zero tolerance for abuse.

‘Communities need to acknowledge that sexual and gender-based violence is not acceptable. They must have conversations to identify what constitutes abuse and make it clear that perpetrators will face consequences. Too often, communities plead on behalf of perpetrators or cajole survivors to stay silent. But once people know that there are consequences, it goes a long way in prevention,’ she said.

The State Project Coordinator for the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme, funded by the European Union and implemented by International IDEA, Ajibola Ijimakinwa, said the event was aimed at raising awareness and reinforcing referral pathways for survivors.

‘Today’s event is one of the activities in the celebration of Domestic Violence Month. The DSVA is creating awareness about SGBV and ensuring that more people know they have a place to refer such cases to, and people that can support them through their trauma. The European Union is supporting DSVA to bring together civil society organisations that have been instrumental in the fight against SGBV in Lagos State,’ she said.

Ijimakinwa noted that donor agencies had set up sexual assault referral centres, including facilities in Alimosho, Mirabel Centre and Warif, to expand the network of services available to survivors.

‘When people know where to report and where to go, it’s a way of telling them that there is help. There is someone out there that believes in you and can support you through the process. One of the key things we’ve done is to ensure that people know where to go when they face such traumatic incidences,’ she explained.

On prevention, she stressed that no one plans to be violated.

‘It has nothing to do with what a survivor did wrong. Nobody prays to be violated. What matters the most is that if, for any reason, you get to a point where you are violated, you know where to go to get the needed help,’ she said.