Lagos records sharp increase in male gender-based violence cases
The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, DSVA, has revealed a significant increase in the number of men reporting cases of gender-based violence, with the figure rising to nearly 8,000 in 2025, up from an average of about 300 in previous years.
The disclosure was made by the agency’s Head of Community Services, Damilare Adewusi, during the 2025 International Men’s Day commemoration and a Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, SGBV, awareness programme held in Lagos.
To mark the occasion, DSVA partnered with the University of Lagos, UNILAG, to organise an awareness walk themed ‘Navigating Pressure: A Man’s Well-being in Modern Lagos.’ The walk began at the UNILAG Senate Building and moved through key areas of the campus, attracting students, staff, and members of civil society groups.
Speaking with journalists, Adewusi, who represented the Executive Secretary of DSVA, Mrs Titilola Adeniyi, emphasised that the initiative was part of the agency’s effort to support survivors of violence regardless of gender.
Adeniyi noted that domestic and sexual violence is often framed as a women’s issue, but men also experience abuse and frequently struggle to report it due to cultural expectations and shame.
She explained that the agency has intensified its male-focused engagements, including its monthly ‘Men with Habits’ programme, which targets market men and aims to challenge stereotypes, promote responsible conduct, and encourage disclosure of abuse.
According to her, the dramatic rise in reported cases, from about 300 in previous years to almost 8,000 this year, indicates that more male survivors are beginning to come forward.
Also speaking at the event, the convener, Elder Adedini Oluropo, drew attention to the emotional and psychological pressures men face, saying their struggles are often ignored or misinterpreted.
