The streets opposite the Ultra Modern Market in Oyingbo came alive recently when the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA) hosted one of its flagship programmes, Couples Ways Sabi, aimed at fostering healthy relationships and challenging gender stereotypes.

The Executive Secretary of DSVA, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, spoke passionately about the initiative emphasizing its role in reducing domestic violence and promoting equality.

Couples Way Sabi, an offshoot of the agency’s Men Way Sabi programme, encourages men to embrace roles traditionally assigned to women, such as cooking and childcare.

“It doesn’t make you less of a man if you partake in domestic chores,” Vivour-Adeniyi stated, highlighting the programme’s mission to debunk harmful stereotypes. She underscored the urgency of this message, noting, “We’ve seen women lose their lives because food wasn’t on the table on time.” By engaging men in these tasks, the agency seeks to prevent domestic violence and strengthen relationships.

The event featured a spirited cooking competition among five couples, Mr and Mrs Taiwo, Mr and Mrs Segun, Mr and Mrs Lukman, Mr and Mrs Michael, and Mr and Mrs Ismaili who showcased their culinary skills to cheers from the community.

Adding to the fun, a diaper-changing contest between Mr and Mrs Akeem and Mr and Mrs Adedayo had the crowd roaring with laughter, with the fastest couple emerging as winners, beaming as they received exciting gifts.

Held in partnership with market executives and supported by brands like Power Oil and Kids Kids, the event saw DSVA distributing flyers and engaging with the public. “People are asking questions, confirming our support lines are valid,” Vivour-Adeniyi shared, expressing optimism about heightened awareness of the agency’s services. The goal, she emphasized, is to reduce domestic and sexual violence to “the barest minimum” through education and community outreach.
The agency’s efforts extend beyond this event. She also outlined a packed schedule, including an advocacy walk in Ikotun on September 10 and a “Turn the Motor Park Purple” initiative at Ojota Motor Park on September 11.
As Vivour-Adeniyi aptly put it, “We want to prevent, we want to reduce this menace.” The Couples Ways Sabi programme is a bold step toward that vision, proving that small actions like a man cooking for his family can spark meaningful change.