On Sunday, September 16th, 2018, survivors, advocates, and supporters of the fight against domestic violence congregated at The Lilygate Hotel, Lagos, to celebrate the launch of the Domestic Violence Assistance Line Initiative (DVALI).

DVALI, an organization founded by Ms. Joyce Okungbowa, is aimed at supporting the fight against domestic violence by providing a helpline to sufferers.

The helpline provides an avenue for victims to connect to experienced support teams who will provide them the required help.

At the launch event, founder of DVALI Ms. Joyce Okungbowa spoke about the eminent signs to look out for in potential abusers and also about what to do when found in such situations.

She spoke extensively about society stigma, speaking up and encouraged sufferers to get help.

Present at the event were Senior members of the Lagos state Judiciary, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, Senior Pastor at Trinity House, Nkiru Olumide-Ojo, Founder of The Lighthouse Network, and many leading ladies. The event was moderated by Ayo Mario-Ese who did an excellent job encouraging people to share.

The evening which guests described as valuable, was with real life experiences by women learning and listening to women sharing their experiences in what all considered a safe space.

DVALI’s core belief is that sharing with another person is the first major step in addressing abuse which often thrives in secrecy/silence.

If you or someone you know is currently experiencing domestic violence, please call the DVALI care line today on 08021811113. All calls to DVALI are strictly confidential and are manned by survivors of domestic violence, who are trained specifically to help callers navigate their situations