Lagos, May 31, 2024: Leadership Initiative for Youth Empowerment (LIFE), a not-for-profit organization, has embarked on a campaign to raise awareness about domestic and gender-based violence in schools across Lagos. The three-day program recently took place in five schools: Jaimure College, Divine Infinity College, Divine International School, Heros Immaculate College, and Nubi Private School.
The initiative aimed to educate students on the Lagos State Protection Against Domestic Violence Law (PADVL) of 2007, which came into force on May 18, 2007. The 14-page document seeks to end physical, mental, emotional, or psychological abuse through legislation.
Mrs. Abiodun Rufus Unegbu, Founder of LIFE, stated that educating students about domestic violence empowers them to take proactive steps to protect victims and prevent abuse. “Empowering students with the requisite knowledge of domestic violence issues will enable younger people to take more proactive steps to save victims,” she said.
LIFE Programme Director, Ms. Ogechi Stephen, highlighted that the campaign is part of LIFE’s May/June Awareness Campaign on Gender-Based Violence across Lagos state schools. She emphasized the importance of strengthening awareness about existing issues and solutions outlined in the Lagos State PADVL 2007.
“LIFE has embarked on an ongoing campaign from May through June 2024 to raise awareness about the Lagos State domestic violence law 2007 and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) among students,” Ms. Stephen explained. “GBV encompasses various forms of violence and discrimination based on gender, including physical, sexual, verbal, and emotional abuse. Through interactive sessions and educational workshops, we aim to equip students with the knowledge and skills to recognize, prevent, and address GBV in their schools and communities.”
She added, “Together, we strive to foster a culture of respect, empathy, and equality, where every individual feels safe and empowered to speak out against violence and discrimination. LIFE is currently providing psycho-social support to survivors of GBV, including secondary school students.”
The campaign reflects LIFE’s commitment to creating safer environments for young people and ensuring that they are well-informed about their rights and the resources available to them. As the program continues, it aims to make a significant impact on reducing gender-based violence and promoting a culture of non-violence and respect in Lagos state schools.