The Ogun State Economic Transformation Project (OGSTEP) has trained journalists and digital media users  on standard operating procedures of reporting SGBV cases in order to enhance their capacity for responsible  reporting of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) cases, emphasizing the media's critical role in protecting survivors and shaping public perception.

This call was made during a stakeholders’ engagement programme held at OPIC Tower, Oke-Ilewo, Abeokuta, with support from the World Bank. 

The event convened journalists, online content creators, and representatives of government agencies, focusing on best practices in SGBV case reporting, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and survivor-centered case management.

Delivering her lecture, OGSTEP’s Gender Specialist, Mrs. Ewajesu Fasina, highlighted the media’s influence in driving social change and urged practitioners to uphold ethical standards when reporting on SGBV.

 “The dignity, privacy, and safety of survivors must be paramount in every story. Irresponsible narratives can retraumatize victims and discourage others from seeking help,” she cautioned.

Speaking on the theme, “Strengthening Gender-Based Violence Response Through Collaboration, Learning, and Safeguarding Standards,” Mrs. Fasina called for all sectors to integrate safeguarding protocols into both service delivery and public communication, especially when interacting with vulnerable populations.

Also, in his lecture with the theme, "Legal Framework  for GBV Response, Reporting, Prosecution and  Survivors Right," a Legal Practitioner and Child Rights Activist, Barr. Damola Lapite stressed the importance of accuracy, compassion, and accountability in reportage, especially SGBV cases.

 “The media must not only inform but also protect. Ethical reporting can drive awareness, support justice, and catalyze systemic reforms,” Lapite noted.

He encouraged journalists to serve as allies in combating GBV by amplifying survivor voices, educating the public, and avoiding sensationalism or victim-blaming in coverage.

Speaking on behalf of the participants, Mr Rasak Ayinla, expressed appreciation to OGSTEP for the training, calling for continued collaboration between media professionals, legal practitioners, and service providers to ensure better outcomes for survivors and stronger community awareness.

The engagement marked another step by OGSTEP in fostering a coordinated, survivor-centered response to GBV in Ogun State, aligning with national and international safeguarding goals.

Highlights of the event was the presentation of the certificates to the participants.