The Oyo State Coordinator for Child Protection Network (CPN), Dr Rosemary Odigbo has described the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) as a vital partner in ensuring a safe environment for every child in Nigeria and Oyo State respectively, adding that its responsibilities align directly with child protection goals.
Dr Odigbo made the submission during an Advocacy visit of CPN to the Oyo State Command of the NSCDC, Agodi, Ibadan on Thursday, May 15, 2025.
Speaking on the theme, “Strengthening Collaboration For Child Protection and Case Management”, the Oyo State Coordinator, Child Protection Network (CPN), Dr Odigbo said the visit became imperative to seek the collaboration of the NSCDC to achieve protection for every child in the state.
According to her, the Child Protection Network (CPN) is a UNICEF-initiated structure designed to strengthen Nigeria’s child protection system through multi-sectoral coordination, adding that CPN collaborates closely with the Federal and State Ministries of Women Affairs, uniting stakeholders committed to safeguarding the rights and well-being of children.
“Following a successful leadership transition last year (2024), my team and myself assumed office with a renewed commitment to strengthening CPN network in advancing child protection in Oyo State. We welcome you warmly and appreciate your presence and support.”
According to Dr Odigbo, CPN In the state comprises a diverse coalition of government agencies, non-governmental organizations, which include faith-based bodies, and community actors who work collaboratively to prevent and respond to abuse, neglect, exploitation, and violence against children.
She added, “today’s advocacy visit is aimed at deepening our partnership with the NSCDC, particularly in the areas of case management, law enforcement support, child protection, and community safety.
“We sincerely acknowledge the continuous support of Mr. Afe Olurotimi and the entire Anti-Human Trafficking and Child Protection Unit of NSCDC for their dedication and responsiveness. We seek to formalize and expand this collaboration for greater impact.
Dr. Odigbo while appreciating the NSCDC Commander, Mr Augustine Padonu noted that CPN Oyo State draws strength from the active participation of key partners, including: Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Inclusion (Lead Coordinating Agency), UNICEF, SOS Children’s Villages, Federal and State Ministries of Justice, Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Nigeria Police Force (NPF), National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) and National Human Rights Commission (NHRC).
Others are Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), National Orientation Agency (NOA), and Legal Aid Council of Nigeria, Faith-based organizations, community leaders, Orphanages, NGOs, CSOs, and child care institutions.
Speaking on the need to Strengthen Collaboration with NSCDC, the CPN Coordinator said the reason is not far fetched from the fact that NSCDC plays a crucial role in
safeguarding lives and property, Engages communities and identifying child protection issues early, Conducting timely rescue operations, its emergency responses, Supporting investigations and prosecutions, Ensuring safety in schools and communities, Promoting peace as well as conducting public sensitization
Key Areas for Enhanced Collaboration according to her, include Case Management and Referral, Joint handling of child abuse and neglect cases, adding that NSCDC representation at CPN case reviews and emergency case conferences.
“Child protection is a shared responsibility and our vision is a society where every child is safe, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential, and with its extensive reach and mandate, NSCDC is a strategic ally in actualizing this vision.
“We invite NSCDC to deepen its partnership with CPN Oyo State. Together, we can build a stronger, more responsive, and protective environment for every child in the state.
Dr Odigbo stressed that the inclusion of NSCDC officers in CPN communication platforms will assist and promote Joint Rescue and Investigation, Rapid response to cases of abuse, trafficking, and child labor, saying NSCDC participation in field operations for legal and physical protection will aid coordinated evidence gathering and legal follow-up
She said other areas of collaboration included Legal and Justice Support, Survivor and witness protection during investigations and trials, Enforcement of child protection-related court orders, Safe School and Community Security, Joint development of school safety protocols under the Safe School Declaration, NSCDC support for community-based safety programs.and Awareness, Training, and Capacity Building
Others are Joint sensitization campaigns on child rights and abuse prevention, NSCDC participation in child protection and gender-based violence trainings, Collaborative training for officers on case handling and victim support, Data Sharing and Documentation, Development of a shared reporting framework for child protection cases, Data exchange to enhance planning and response at both state and local levels and Specific Requests to NSCDC.
The CPN Coordinator therefore seek nomination of trained child protection officers to CPN at both state and LGA levels, Active participation in CPN case reviews and emergency response meetings, Support in the enforcement of child protection court orders
She said public acknowledgment during the parade of offenders whose cases are handled by CPN will serve as a deterrent to others, adding that the mobilization of NSCDC officers for school and community sensitization efforts will go a long way in assisting the activities of CPN
Responding, the state NSCDC Commandant, Augustine Padonu thanked Dr Rose Odigbo for the visit aimed at contributing positively to the society.
He assured the CPN Coordinator of the support and collaboration of the command in archiving the mandate and objectives of the body.
