…Group says creating safe havens for Nigerian children is achievable
In a bid to strengthen child protection efforts in Nigeria, Positive Chants for Nigeria, in partnership with the Conference of Non-Governmental Organisations (CONGOS), has announced plans to train 65 non-governmental and community-based organisations across Edo State.
The initiative, which was unveiled at a press briefing in Benin City, aims to build the capacity of NGOs to better respond to issues affecting the well-being, safety, and development of Nigerian children.
Ambassador Obeahon Precious, Country Director of Positive Chants for Nigeria, said the training would enable participating organisations to identify and support children experiencing abuse, neglect, or trauma.
“Today, many children no longer feel safe at home,” she said. “They may be dealing with violence, hunger, family separation, or the imprisonment of a loved one. These issues can severely affect their mental and emotional growth.”
She emphasised the importance of community support systems, urging society’s members to take collective responsibility for the welfare of children.
“If we ignore the needs of our children, they could grow up with a diminished sense of belonging,” she warned. “We want to raise children who are not only active members of society but are also active participants in their own lives. For that to happen, they must first feel safe, supported, and heard.”
The training, which will hold in Benin City and extend to the wider South-South region, is designed to incorporate concepts such as Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), Positive Childhood Experiences (PCEs), UNICEF’s thematic areas, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into the operational strategies of the selected NGOs.
Participants will also be trained on Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) frameworks to ensure data-driven, impactful programming. Additional focus areas include trauma-informed care, resilience-building, and digital storytelling for advocacy and community engagement.
Amb. Precious expressed optimism that the initiative would lead to stronger collaboration among NGOs and a unified effort in tackling child-related challenges across Nigeria.
“We cannot afford to work in silos anymore. To build a better Nigeria, NGOs must come together, share resources, and drive change as a collective,” she added.
Also speaking at the event, President of CONGOS, Comrade Dr Bartholomew Okodo, said the press conference marked the beginning of a process to “unbundle” MEAL systems for the participating organisations.
According to him, “This project will enable NGOs in Edo State to properly assess their impact, understand the outcomes of their interventions, and improve transparency and accountability.”
The organisers believe that by empowering these 65 organisations with knowledge, tools, and strategies, the vision of creating a safe and nurturing environment for every Nigerian child can become a reality.
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