Lagos trains health workers to improve response to sexual assault cases
The Lagos State Government has trained health workers across public and private facilities to strengthen the prevention, identification, and management of sexual assault cases as incidents of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) continue to rise across the state.
The two-day training, held from 11 to 12 November 2025 at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Alausa, brought together medical personnel from primary, secondary, and tertiary facilities.
Representing the Director of Family Health and Nutrition, Dr Folasade Oludara, the Deputy Director of Child Health, Dr Oluwatosin Onasanya, said the increasing cases of rape and defilement made it necessary to enhance the capacity of frontline responders.
She noted that health workers play a critical role in treatment and proper documentation that supports justice. According to her, the training equips participants to identify survivors, provide timely care, and document findings accurately.
Onasanya added that examination tools and specimen collection kits had already been distributed to health facilities and that personnel training was the next step in strengthening the state’s SGBV response system.
The SGBV Programme Manager, Dr Juradat Aofiyebi, described the initiative as essential in improving survivor-centred care and raising conviction rates.
She said 25 experienced doctors from general hospitals participated, stressing that coordinated multi-sectoral efforts remained key to addressing sexual violence.
During a legal session, the Deputy Director in the Directorate of Public Prosecutions, Mrs Adebanke Ogunde, emphasised that the quality of medical documentation often influences the outcome of sexual assault cases.
She reminded participants that health workers are mandatory reporters and must notify the police or the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency when they encounter suspected cases.
She referenced the Evidence Act, which recognises medical reports as vital corroborative evidence, especially in cases involving children.
A Consultant Family Physician at LASUTH, Dr Oluwajimi Sodipo, urged the state to prioritise timely treatment, psychosocial support, and non-stigmatising care. He also called for stronger forensic capacity, improved insurance coverage, and better welfare for health workers to enhance justice delivery.
Representing LASHMA, Claims Officer Mrs Anyebe Margret explained that the ILERA EKO Health Insurance Scheme covers survivors’ medical needs, including emergency care, investigations, and follow-up treatment funded through the Equity Fund. She outlined LASHMA’s role in claim verification, emergency coordination, and safeguarding survivors.
Another technical session led by the Assistant Director of Health Education, Mrs Ololade Babarere, highlighted the importance of self-care for health workers who regularly manage traumatic cases.
She noted that repeated exposure could lead to burnout and compassion fatigue and urged practitioners to adopt coping mechanisms such as rest, exercise, and peer support.
Participants commended the training for improving their skills. Dr Odiawa Ijeweme of General Hospital, Apapa, said the programme enhanced her competence in history-taking and referrals.
Dr Charity Eferaro of the Lagos State University Health Centre, Ojo, said the sessions strengthened her ability to provide non-judgemental, holistic care to student survivors.
The programme reaffirmed Lagos State’s commitment to survivor-centred care and continued collaboration among the Ministries of Health and Justice, LASHMA, and the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency to ensure survivors receive timely medical attention, dignity, and access to justice.