The Lagos State Government has introduced a Religious Pre-Marital Counselling Online Course aimed at pastors, imams, and faith-based marriage counsellors to equip them with practical tools for guiding couples toward healthier, violence-free marriages.
The initiative, announced on Wednesday by the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), forms part of the state’s broader strategy to prevent domestic violence by reinforcing strong family foundations before marriages begin.
Marriage preparation in Lagos often occurs within churches and mosques, positioning faith leaders as critical sources of guidance for couples. Recognising this influence, the DSVA programme combines faith-based teachings with modern relationship education, helping couples develop partnerships rooted in communication, respect, and accountability.
The online course is delivered through a flexible digital platform featuring self-paced modules, case studies, and assessments. Participants who successfully complete the training will receive certification, strengthening professionalism and accountability in faith-based counselling across the state, the agency said.
In addition to relationship skills, the curriculum introduces counsellors to Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) prevention, including guidance on identifying early warning signs of abusive relationships and offering responsible support to couples.
The launch event included representatives from faith and government organisations, such as The Anglican Diocese of Lagos, the Nasrul-Lahi-l-Fatih Society, and the Lagos State Ministry of Home Affairs.
DSVA noted that the course complements the recently introduced Relationship Health Clinic, an initiative providing professional psychological support to individuals and couples through the evidence-based RELATE Protocol, which evaluates relationship dynamics and guides early interventions.
Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, Executive Secretary of DSVA, emphasised the preventive focus of the programme. She said, “Domestic violence does not begin in the courtroom. In many cases, it begins long before marriage. By strengthening pre-marital counselling in our faith institutions, we help couples build marriages founded on respect, safety, and shared responsibility.”
She added, “Preventing domestic violence requires collective responsibility. By partnering with faith institutions, we are fortifying marriages at their foundation and building communities where homes remain safe and supportive for everyone.”
Through these initiatives, the Lagos State Government reinforces its Zero Tolerance policy for Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, while promoting healthy marriages and stable families across the state.
