A non-governmental organisation, SOS Children’s Villages in Nigeria has said there was a need for attention to the most vulnerable children in Nigeria as they suffer all forms of child abuse due to the poor conditions they find themselves.
The organisation said 17.5 million orphaned children in Nigeria are living in vulnerable conditions with little or no support for them.
The Head of Brand and Communication – Nigeria, Rhoda Ocheche, in a statement on Friday in Abuja to celebrate World Development Information Day called for an urgent need for meaningful collaborations and partnership that would nurture and transform the future and lives of children through the launch of the SOS Friends Campaign.
According to the organisation, the recent flood incidence in Borno State has indicated that any children can suddenly become vulnerable and exposed to harsh realities.
The Fund Development Manager, SOS Children’s Villages in Nigeria, Thelma Ojelabi said: “Tackling the issues of Nigeria especially for the children requires a united front with strong and effective collaborations. SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria calls for more attention to the pressing development issues affecting children and communities across the nation.
“As an organisation, we remain steadfast in our mission to provide family-like care, empowerment to caregivers, quality education, and holistic support to vulnerable children.
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“So as we commemorate World Development Information day, remember that it is our critical and collective responsibility to ensure mitigation against incidents that plunge these children into devastating situations and build sustainable development for a brighter future for all children.”
The statement added: “To foster significant collaborations that produces effective contributions, results and sustainability for the most Vulnerable children, SOS Children’s Villages is launching a campaign called SOS FRIENDS. The SOS Friend initiative is geared towards mobilising stakeholders who will commit to advocating for children and contribute financially to the implementation of strategic programs that attend to the needs of children, this is a drive towards Nigerians supporting Nigerians. Being an SOS friend, provides the opportunity to create lasting change for Nigeria’s children, through donations, volunteering, and advocacy, ensuring no child is left behind. This collaboration ensures sustainable solutions that empower communities to raise children in the right environment for their absolute growth.
“Furthermore, all hands must be on deck to ensure that we give the Nigerian child a sense of belonging and a shot at a life filled with intentional efforts for their total well-being. We urge Individuals, corporate organisations and the government to join us as SOS Friends. The time is now for stronger partnerships and a focused action for the Nigerian child. Together, we can secure a better tomorrow for the children of today.”q