By Taiye Olayemi
No fewer than 900 employees of AXA Mansard, have sensitised Nigerians against domestic and sexual violence across some cities within the nation.
According to a statement issued by the company on Wednesday, the initiative formed part of the company’s annual corporate social responsibility (CSR) drive, AXA Week for Good.
The programme had staff volunteers visit schools across Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt, sensitising students and teachers on the dangers of abuse and the importance of early identification, prevention, and reporting.
The initiative, which is a key component of AXA Hearts In Action (AHIA), seeks to mobilise employee support for social and environmental causes through volunteering, financial assistance, and knowledge sharing.
Speaking on the initiative, Mrs Rashidat Adebisi, Chief Client Officer at AXA Mansard, said the theme for this year’s campaign, “Being a Girl Shouldn’t Be a Risk,” underscored the urgent need to protect children, especially girls from all forms of abuse.
“Our employees are not just giving time to causes they believe in they are building a better future.
“We are acting for human progress by protecting what matters most, especially vulnerable people in our communities,” he said.
She emphasised that Nigeria’s children and adolescents, who make up nearly half of the country’s population, must be protected if the nation hopes to realise the potential of its human capital.
“With 60 per cent of Nigerian children experiencing one or more forms of violence before the age of 18, the future of our society is at risk. This is a national emergency that demands collective action,” she said.
Adebisi said that the campaign also featured awareness walks aimed at drawing public attention to the impact of domestic and sexual violence on children and the wider society.
She noted that in 2024 alone, over half of AXA Mansard’s workforce participated in the AHIA programme, contributing more than 23,000 volunteering hours to various causes.
“This level of commitment speaks volumes about our values as a company. At AXA Mansard, we believe real impact begins with people, and we will continue to support initiatives that safeguard the most vulnerable among us,” she said.
Through this initiative, AXA Mansard reinforces its commitment to corporate responsibility, showing that its mission goes beyond providing insurance. It includes building a safer and more inclusive society for future generations.