Orphanages association decries weak implementation of child rights  

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By Martha Agas

The Association of Orphanages and Home Operators in Nigeria (ASOHON) has decried the weak implementation of the Child Rights Act, 2003, which hinders foster care in some parts of the country.

The National President, Rev. Gabriel Oyediji, highlighted these challenges on Friday in Abuja during the opening of a two-day seminar for coordinators and stakeholders across Nigeria.

The seminar was with the theme: ‘From Vulnerability to Stability: Time to Strengthen Foster Care in Nigeria’.

Rev. Oyediji highlighted that many states had yet to fully implement the Act, which includes provisions designed to protect children in alternative care.

He called for the full implementation of the Act nationwide to strengthen the foster care system through legal reforms.

While orphanages provide temporary shelter, Rev. Oyediji stressed that institutional care is not the ideal solution for children’s well-being.

“Research shows that children thrive best in family environments, where they receive love, belonging, and emotional support,” he said.

He noted that foster care offers a stable, nurturing home, protecting children’s rights and dignity, yet remains underdeveloped in Nigeria.

According to him, challenges like inadequate policies, lack of awareness, insufficient funding, and limited support for foster parents hinder the growth of foster care.

He urged the government to provide financial incentives to foster families and improve the training of social workers and child welfare officers.

Oyediji emphasised that collective efforts are essential to advocate for policies that support foster care over institutional care.

For foster care to succeed, he said, foster parents must receive adequate training, emotional support, and financial assistance.

“A sustainable system requires strong partnerships among stakeholders to address the needs of vulnerable children,” he added.

The seminar aimed to discuss alternative care for vulnerable children and provide strategies to strengthen foster care in Nigeria.

ASOHON is collaborating with SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria to raise awareness about alternative care and promote family-based care.

Eghosa Erhumwunse, Country Director of SOS, confirmed the organisation’s support in addressing critical issues in alternative care for children.

Mr Chijioke Nwakadu, representing SOS, also noted that the seminar would allow stakeholders to address the use of orphanages for illicit activities.

Mrs Sandra Chikan, Vice President of ASOHON’s Northern Region, stated that over 550 organisations are registered with ASOHON to monitor activities and combat criminality.

According to her, the association is working with the government to address child trafficking in conflict areas and its root causes.

Chikan said that the seminar would help identify contributing factors and offer solutions to these challenges. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo

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