SGBV Activism: Lagos First Lady storms Rehab Centre, promises urgent overhaul

Lagos State First Lady, Dr (Mrs) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, on paid an unscheduled working visit to the Lagos State Rehabilitation and Training Centre in Ikorodu, promising swift government intervention to upgrade the facility and improve conditions for staff and residents.

Her visit formed part of the activities marking the 2025 global 16 Days of Activism Against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).

Received by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Dr (Mrs) Oluwatoyin Oke-Osanyintolu, the First Lady was conducted round the centre, where officials raised concerns about infrastructure deficits, inadequate facilities and staff welfare gaps. They described her presence as a major morale booster.

In her remarks, Dr Sanwo-Olu commended the workers for their dedication despite constraints and restated the state government’s commitment to strengthening institutions that cater for vulnerable residents.

She said: “This administration remains fully committed to protecting the dignity and wellbeing of every resident, especially those who depend on specialised support. The issues raised today are receiving priority attention, and a renewed intervention is underway.”

She noted that planned upgrades would focus on service delivery, institutional efficiency and staff motivation.

Beyond the rehabilitation centre, the First Lady also visited two major civil society organisations working within the Igbogbo–Ikorodu axis—Vision Spring Initiative and the Community Women’s Rights Foundation—where she met activists engaged in women’s rights, gender equality and social justice.

She further inspected the Juvenile Welfare Centre in Alakara, Mushin, a temporary shelter for displaced children awaiting family reunification.

The visit enabled her to assess urgent needs and identify areas requiring government intervention to ensure children are protected from abuse and exploitation.

Dr Sanwo-Olu said the tour aligns with her broader advocacy drive to deepen collaboration between government and civil society in tackling SGBV, strengthening support systems for survivors and enhancing community-level awareness.

The 16 Days of Activism Against SGBV is a worldwide campaign aimed at raising awareness, improving institutional responses and mobilising stakeholders to eliminate all forms of violence.