National Study on Intimate Partner Violence and Sexual Violence in Lagos, Nigeria
Project Overview
Mitigation Consult contributed to one of the earliest and most comprehensive studies of Intimate Partner Violence (IPV), sexual violence, and related forms of abuse in Nigeria. Commissioned by the then Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team (DSVRT), Lagos State, the research supported Lagos State’s pioneering efforts to address domestic and sexual violence through evidence-based policy and intervention strategies. The DSVRT has since evolved into a government agency under the Lagos State Ministry of Justice.
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The study was designed to examine the prevalence, underlying causes, risk factors, and social dynamics associated with intimate partner violence, sexual violence, and related offences across diverse communities in Nigeria. Its primary objective was to generate empirical evidence that would inform prevention strategies, public awareness initiatives, policy development, and victim support interventions.
The research adopted a multi-sectoral and community-based approach, collecting data from participants across various social settings, including marketplaces, educational institutions, workplaces, and religious organizations. Through stakeholder engagement, field data collection, and qualitative and quantitative analysis, the study explored behavioural, social, economic, cultural, and environmental factors associated with violence within intimate relationships and families.
The study examined factors that may contribute to, influence, or trigger intimate partner violence and sexual offences, including social norms, family dynamics, economic pressures, relationship conflict, gender attitudes, substance use, and other contextual risk factors.
The findings provided critical insights into the drivers and patterns of intimate partner violence and sexual abuse in Lagos. The research contributed to a stronger evidence base for policy formulation, prevention programming, public education campaigns, and stakeholder engagement initiatives aimed at reducing violence and strengthening protection mechanisms for vulnerable populations.
This landmark project reinforced the importance of combining research, community engagement, and strategic intervention in addressing complex social challenges and improving public safety outcomes.
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