The European Union has unveiled an initiative that promises to reach over one million vulnerable children and their families across the country, to transform Nigeria’s child protection systems.
Unveiled in Abuja, the three-year programme, “Strengthening Child Care and Protection Systems in Nigeria”, is a multi-state effort set to run in Borno, Edo, and Plateau States, as well as at the national level.
Speaking during the opening of the programme, Eghosa Erhumwunse, Country Director of SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria, said the initiative is being led in collaboration with the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and the Jireh Doo Foundation.
“This programme is a structured and intentional response to restore dignity, safety, and hope to Nigerian children”.
He explained that the project seeks to bridge the widening gap between legal protections and the daily realities facing Nigeria’s children. “It will directly support 13,500 children, equally divided between girls and boys as well as 900 caregivers, 240 child protection professionals, and 72 government agencies, including key ministries and law enforcement bodies”.
During the launch event, Massimo De Luca, Head of the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, emphasised the urgency of action.
He noted that, “Nigeria is home to over 100 million children, almost double the population from just a few decades ago. “While several states have adopted the Child Rights Act, the gap between policy and practice remains too wide. This initiative aims to bridge that divide.” he said.
Stakeholders during the pannel session
De Luca called for an inclusive approach, stressing that every child’s right must be upheld, especially those living with disabilities. He also acknowledged the critical role of women in protecting children and urged stakeholders to collaborate across sectors.
“This is not merely a gesture, it’s a statement of commitment, we must ensure that no child is left behind.” he added.
During a panel session, child protection experts and human rights advocates who believed that At the heart of the programme lies the belief that community-led solutions are the most sustainable. called for:
Greater support for caregivers;
Stronger legal and judicial responses to child abuse and exploitation;
Locally-driven, culturally-sensitive strategies to keep children safe.
As Nigeria continues to navigate complex challenges in child welfare, from poverty and displacement to violence as well as neglect, this EU-backed initiative is being hailed as a potential turning point in the country’s child protection journey.
The stakeholders agreed that, “It’s not just about numbers. It’s about building a future where every child is seen, heard, and protected”.
The forum concludes with the commitment that the next phase will involve implementation across key sectors, with stakeholders hopeful that the programme could become a blueprint for national reform and a symbol of what is possible when international solidarity meets local commitment.
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