The Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), in partnership with AXA Mansard, has launched the Smart Teens Advocacy Initiative (STAI) Booklet to empower young people with knowledge on safety, healthy relationships, and personal rights.
Eko Hot News reports that the booklet was unveiled at the AXA Mansard Head Office in Victoria Island, Lagos, as part of efforts to address emerging social challenges facing teenagers and young adults.
Designed as a practical guide, the STAI Booklet provides valuable information on personal safety, respect, consent, identity, healthy relationships, and protection from Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).
The publication also addresses critical issues such as peer pressure, social media use, personal boundaries, self-awareness, and responsible decision-making among young people.
Speaking at the launch, representatives of both organizations emphasized the importance of equipping teenagers with the right knowledge and life skills needed to navigate today’s fast-changing social environment.
The event attracted students from Falomo Senior Secondary School and Ireti Senior Grammar School, who participated in interactive sessions focused on safety awareness and personal development.
The Chief Executive Officer of AXA Mansard Health Limited, Mr. Tope Adeniyi, highlighted the importance of investing in the well-being and protection of young people through education and awareness initiatives.
According to him, empowering teenagers with accurate information helps them make informed choices and build confidence in managing real-life situations.
Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, stressed the need for continuous advocacy aimed at protecting children and young adults from abuse and exploitation.
She noted that providing accessible educational resources remains a vital strategy in promoting safer communities and encouraging responsible behaviour among young people.
Vivour-Adeniyi explained that the booklet serves as a practical tool that empowers teenagers to understand their rights, identify inappropriate behaviour, and seek help when necessary.
She added that early education on issues such as consent, respect, and healthy relationships can significantly contribute to reducing cases of abuse and violence.
The Executive Secretary reaffirmed DSVA’s commitment to creating awareness and strengthening preventive measures against Sexual and Gender-Based Violence across Lagos State.
According to her, the agency remains focused on protecting vulnerable groups through education, advocacy, policy implementation, and strategic partnerships.
The launch of the STAI Booklet reflects the growing collaboration between DSVA and AXA Mansard in advancing child protection and youth empowerment initiatives.
Both organizations have continued to work together on programmes that promote awareness, safety, and social responsibility among residents of Lagos State.
The initiative comes at a time when digital exposure and social pressures have increased the need for practical guidance for teenagers navigating modern challenges.
Experts have noted that young people today face complex situations influenced by technology, peer expectations, and changing social dynamics.
The booklet aims to bridge knowledge gaps by providing relatable and age-appropriate information that encourages positive values and informed decision-making.
Students who attended the launch were encouraged to become ambassadors of safety and respect within their schools and communities.
The programme also created opportunities for open discussions on topics that are often difficult for teenagers to address.
Participants received guidance on recognizing unhealthy behaviours, understanding boundaries, and building positive relationships based on mutual respect.
The collaboration between DSVA and AXA Mansard underscores the importance of partnerships in addressing social issues affecting young people.
By combining resources and expertise, both organizations aim to reach more teenagers with life-changing information that promotes safety and personal development.
The Smart Teens Advocacy Initiative is expected to support ongoing efforts to reduce incidents of abuse and strengthen awareness among adolescents across Lagos State.
Stakeholders at the event commended the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention that responds to the realities facing today’s youth.
They noted that providing teenagers with practical knowledge remains one of the most effective ways to encourage responsible behaviour and foster safer communities.
As awareness continues to grow, the STAI Booklet is expected to become an important resource for schools, parents, educators, and youth-focused organizations.
The initiative further demonstrates Lagos State’s commitment to child protection, youth empowerment, and the creation of an environment where young people can thrive safely and confidently.
