The Apapa port corridor came alive on Saturday as the Ports Authority Police (Western) Command staged a symbolic 5km walk to break the silence around Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).
The event formed part of activities marking the 70th anniversary of women serving in the Nigeria Police, a milestone celebrated with advocacy rather than fanfare.
From the Apapa axis to Tincan, participants marched with banners, chants and messages calling for respect, safety and justice for women everywhere.
Female officers led the procession, joined by youth groups, civil society organisations and port stakeholders who matched energy with purpose.
The walk turned into a moving campaign train, attracting attention from traders, motorists and dock workers along the route.
Commissioner of Police, Ports Authority Police (Western) Command, CP Toyin Agbaminoja, described the initiative as a merge of history and activism.
She said 70 years of women in policing was worth celebrating, but the realities of violence and discrimination against women could not be ignored.
Agbaminoja emphasized that every step taken during the walk symbolised progress toward a safer society for women and girls.
She highlighted ongoing reforms within the Command to improve response and reporting channels for SGBV survivors.
Stronger investigative structures, collaboration with medical and welfare institutions, and improvements in survivor support were listed among key interventions.
Stakeholders at the event stressed the need for continuous enlightenment, especially within maritime communities where cases often go unreported.
Speakers urged stronger law enforcement presence, community cooperation and sustained public education to dismantle the culture of silence around abuse.
Participants described the walk as both emotional and empowering, calling for more platforms where victims can speak up without fear.
The Command reaffirmed its stance — zero tolerance for sexual and gender-based violence, and full commitment to justice for every survivor.
As the 5km walk ended, the message lingered: Protection is a duty, silence is no longer an option.
