By Ikugbadi Oluwasegun
The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the promotion of safe, inclusive and respectful learning environments with the official launch of the Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment (SEAH) Policy for Tertiary Educational Institutions in Lagos State.
The policy was formally launched by the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Olabode Agoro, at the ASBIFI Event Centre, Ikeja, Lagos, on Thursday, December 12, 2025.
Speaking at the event, the Governor stated that the SEAH Policy is a critical framework designed to strengthen accountability, safeguard students and staff, and entrench zero tolerance for all forms of sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment within tertiary institutions across the State. He noted that the initiative underscores the present administration’s resolve to ensure that educational institutions remain safe spaces where dignity, respect, and excellence can thrive.
The SEAH Policy is championed by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (MWAPA) under the leadership of the Honourable Commissioner, Hon. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, and is being implemented in collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). The policy outlines clear reporting and response mechanisms, survivor-centred procedures, defined institutional responsibilities and sanctions, while also strengthening prevention, awareness, and accountability systems across Lagos State campuses.
In her remarks, Hon. Bolaji Cecilia Dada described the policy as a transformative intervention aimed at driving institutional reform and behavioural change. She reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to protecting the rights, dignity, and wellbeing of learners and academic communities, adding that effective implementation and continuous monitoring will remain a priority.
The launch attracted the participation of key stakeholders, including the Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hon. Tolani Sule; the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Rianat Onigbanjo, representatives of Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), the Executive Secretary, Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), Mrs. Titilola Rhodes-Vivour Adeniyi; representatives of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) management and representatives of tertiary institutions in Lagos State; development partners, staff of MWAPA, and other relevant stakeholders.
Participants at the event unanimously endorsed the SEAH Policy as a landmark framework that will enhance institutional integrity, safeguard the rights of students and staff, and promote a culture of safety and accountability. The initiative further aligns with the Lagos State Government’s THEMES Plus Agenda, particularly its commitment to building a secure, inclusive, and progressive Lagos.
