From Public Policy to Social Impact: Meet the Woman Transforming Lagos’ Response to Gender Based Violence

By harnessing her negotiation, influence, and networking skills, she fosters effective collaboration between government agencies and other stakeholders. As a lawyer, she emphasizes the importance of holding perpetrators accountable, ensuring access to justice, and putting an end to the culture of impunity.

In the bustling metropolis of Lagos, Nigeria, a dedicated and tenacious woman has been at the forefront of the fight against gender-based violence (GBV). Meet Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, a seasoned public servant with a passion for making a difference in the lives of the vulnerable.

With a remarkable 15-year career in Lagos State’s public service, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi has held diverse roles that span public policy, administration, legal services, and social services. However, it is her groundbreaking work in combating gender and sexual-based violence that truly sets her apart.

In 2014, she took on the role of coordinator for the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team, where she spearheaded efforts to coordinate responses from various service providers, including ministries, non-governmental organizations, and law enforcement agencies. Her dedication and commitment in this role led to her current position as the pioneer Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency.

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As the head of the agency, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi’s responsibilities are two-fold. In cases where GBV occurs, she ensures that survivors receive a comprehensive response, including access to free legal, medical, psycho-social, and empowerment services. Simultaneously, she works tirelessly to reduce the prevalence of GBV by championing advocacy and implementing proactive measures for prevention.

Her expertise in public policy, administration, and law plays a pivotal role in addressing GBV from multiple angles. By harnessing her negotiation, influence, and networking skills, she fosters effective collaboration between government agencies and other stakeholders. As a lawyer, she emphasizes the importance of holding perpetrators accountable, ensuring access to justice, and putting an end to the culture of impunity.

Beyond her work in the public sector, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi’s passion for empowering the vulnerable led her to establish the Lola Vivour Adeniyi Foundation. Through this initiative, she provides scholarships and business grants, touching the lives of those most in need.

In addition to her contributions to policy and legal matters, she has also authored several books for children, addressing crucial topics such as domestic violence, civic education, sexual violence, and self-love/body safety. Her memoir, titled “Living for a Higher Purpose: Inspiring Hope through the Nigerian Public Service,” delves into her personal journey, challenges, and innovations in her fight against GBV.

Reflecting on her drive and passion, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi attributes her sense of purpose to her upbringing and sense of social responsibility. Throughout her career, she has maintained an unwavering commitment to impacting lives positively and making a difference in society.

In Lagos State, her pioneering efforts have yielded positive results, with a collaborative approach involving non-governmental organizations and a consistent display of political will from state leadership. From a modest inter-ministerial team to a fully-fledged agency with 24/7 operations and a dedicated budget, the progress is evident. However, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi remains humble, recognizing that continuous improvement and collaboration are essential in the fight against GBV.

Her memoir serves as an inspiration to others, encouraging individuals to document their journeys and share experiences to empower and guide others in their respective endeavors.

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As a successful woman who has shattered stereotypes and pushed boundaries, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi’s advice to women is clear: never allow limitations to define them, believe in their capabilities, and stay focused on their goals. She emphasizes the importance of hard work, perseverance, and building meaningful relationships along the way.

With her life’s mantra as “a merchant of hope,” Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi’s impact on Lagos’ response to GBV and her dedication to empowering the vulnerable stand as a testament to the transformative power of social impact and the tireless efforts of change-makers like her.