By Bilkis Abdulraheem Lawal
The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), in partnership with the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Lagos State Chapter, has intensified efforts to combat digital forms of abuse by organising a sensitisation seminar on Technology-Facilitated Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (TFSGBV).
The event which held at the Youth House, Yaba, formed part of activities marking the global 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, with a focus on protecting young people navigating today’s fast-evolving digital world.
Chairman of NYCN Lagos, Mr. Adigun Ibrahim, in his welcome address, urged youths to prioritise digital safety, warning that online violations often escalate rapidly and leave long-term consequences.
Participants were taken through various forms of TFSGBV, including cyberstalking, impersonation, online harassment, digital blackmail, non-consensual sharing of intimate images, sextortion, and other emerging cyber threats. Using real-life examples, facilitators illustrated how perpetrators exploit digital platforms and how victims can quickly become overwhelmed.
The youths also received practical guidance on safeguarding themselves online, ranging from adjusting privacy settings and strengthening passwords to avoiding suspicious engagements, recognising red flags, and reporting abuse through appropriate channels.
The discussion emphasised responsible digital behaviour, respect for consent, and the shared responsibility to build safer virtual spaces.
Mr. Tosin Akinde of DSVA, highlighted the deep psychological, social, and economic toll of technology-facilitated violence, urging continuous peer education and stronger involvement of youth leaders in preventing online GBV across communities.
Participants expressed appreciation to DSVA and NYCN Lagos for addressing the digital realities facing young Nigerians, pledging to advocate for safe and responsible online conduct.
The event wrapped up with an interactive Q&A session, photographs, and renewed calls for strengthened collaboration to tackle all forms of sexual and gender-based violence, both online and offline.
#DSVA #SGBV #AGreaterLagosRising #LASG
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