SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria Strengthens Child Protection Capacity Ahead of 2025 Programme Year
In a strategic move to enhance child protection systems in Oyo State, SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria (SOS CVN) organized a one-day capacity-building workshop for members of the Oyo State Child Protection Network (CPN) in Ibadan.
The workshop is part of the implementation strategy for the 2025 programme year, supported by a ₦16 million grant aimed at reducing child vulnerability and exploitation across the state.
This initiative reflects a long-term investment in governance, leadership, and accountability to ensure safer communities for children.
The session was officially opened by Mr. Gabriel Adajie, Programme Manager for SOS CVN in Oyo State, who reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to building resilient, child-safe communities.
Dr. Rosemary Odigbo, State Coordinator of the CPN, delivered a welcome address, commending SOS CVN’s proactive efforts in strengthening child and family protection systems across the state.
The workshop convened 30 key members of the CPN Executive Committee and Project Implementation Team, alongside three SOS CVN staff and an external facilitator.
Participants received practical training focused on planning, implementing, and reporting child-centered initiatives in line with 2025 programme priorities.
Mr. Adajie facilitated the first session, offering an in-depth look at governance, leadership, and accountability in project delivery. Topics covered included: Key concepts in child protection project planning and implementation; Clarified roles for Executive Committee and Implementation Team members; Monitoring and evaluation frameworks, financial and narrative reporting, and donor compliance; and Ethical, inclusive leadership in safeguarding initiatives.
“We’re not just investing in projects; we’re investing in the people who protect children. This training lays the foundation for more transparent and impactful systems of care,” said Adajie.
Key outcomes of the workshop included: Strengthened understanding of the 2025 project goals and operational frameworks; Clear role definitions for CPN leadership and implementation teams; Renewed commitment to timely, accurate, and accountable reporting; Emphasis on ethical leadership and inclusive safeguarding practices; and Enhanced capacity for resource mobilization and effective project cycle management.
A guest session was led by Mrs. Kaneng Rwang-Pam, Executive Director of the KRP Foundation for Education and Migration Awareness (KRP FEMA), who shared strategic insights on project management, leadership ethics, and sustainability planning.
Participants engaged in interactive group activities and role-based discussions, fostering collaboration and problem-solving around operational challenges.
Mrs. Leonny Obomeghie, SOS CVN’s Child Protection Coordinator, coordinated the event, ensuring a productive and engaging learning environment.
Closing the workshop, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Ogendengbe, former CPN State Coordinator, delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks. She expressed deep appreciation to SOS CVN and praised participants for their active engagement.
She also reaffirmed the CPN’s commitment to effective implementation of the 2025 project agreement, with a focus on strengthened governance, collaboration, and accountability.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Adajie acknowledged participants’ dedication and emphasized the importance of continued partnership in improving child protection outcomes across Oyo State.
This initiative marks a promising step forward in the mission to build safer, more inclusive communities for children in Nigeria.