The Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) on Tuesday, hosted a one-day interactive meeting with women-focused non-governmental organisations (NGOs), under the theme: “Homes and Public Places Safety: An Essential Way of Life.”

The event, held at the Women Development Centre, Agege, brought together key stakeholders from various NGOs, women advocacy groups, public health professionals, and community leaders, to deliberate on critical issues surrounding the safety and security of women and children in both private and public spaces.

In her keynote address, the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Cecilia Bolaji Dada emphasised that ensuring safety in homes, markets, workplaces, schools, and public transport systems is not optional but essential to the well-being of women, children, and families at large.

According to her, “As a Ministry, we recognise that safety is a fundamental right and an essential component of a functioning and inclusive society. Today’s engagement is to deepen collaboration with grassroots women-focused organisations who are often the first responders and advocates within their communities.”

The interactive meeting provided a platform for experience-sharing, strategy formulation, and strengthening of partnerships aimed at addressing personal and public safety at home and work.

Mrs. Oluwatosin Sobola, Director, Lagos State Safety Commission, said, “Stay alert, keep emergency contacts handy, and promote safety awareness.”

Sobola further stressed the importance of integrating preventive safety education into daily routines in homes, schools, and workplaces.

Participants highlighted challenges faced by vulnerable groups in accessing safe spaces and recommended multi-agency collaboration, improved public lighting, community policing, and continuous sensitisation as urgent priorities.

In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary, WAPA, Mrs. Rianat Ajibike Onigbanjo, thanked the Sanwo-Olu administration for its commitment to prioritising the safety and economic well-being of women through policy development, stakeholder engagement, and impactful interventions.

The meeting had in attendance Directors in the Ministry, Senior Special ÙN Adviser to the Governor on Grassroots Empowerment, Mr. Kehinde Bakare and heads of women-focused NGOs.

The event concluded with a fire drill exercise and sensitisation by the team of Lagos State Fire Service led by Mr. Temitayo Oluwasanya, who tutored participating NGOs to work with the Ministry in promoting a safer Lagos.