GLOBAL SUPPORT FOR KIDS INITIATIVE CELEBRATES INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR STREET CHILDREN

THEME: KEEPING STREET CONNECTED CHILDREN SAFE

Global Support for Kids Initiative celebrated the International Day for Street Children on Wednesday, April 12th, 2023, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, with the theme “Keeping Street Connected Children Safe”. The event, which took place behind the Railway Station in Lafenwa, was attended by a large number of street-connected children and community actors living in the vicinity.

In his welcome speech, the Executive Director of Global Support for Kids Initiative, Mr. Opeyemi Olowookere, stated that the organization is committed to reducing the growing cases of child abuse in society and providing hope for street children. He also highlighted that the Convention on the Rights of the Child recognizes the right of every child to a standard of living that is adequate for their physical, mental, spiritual, moral, and social development. Unfortunately, children living on the street are often deprived of these rights. Therefore, the organization is committed to ensuring that they receive adequate care and support.

The Director, represented by Oyefeso Abiola, explained that the organization has continuously provided life-saving services to street children, offering essential items such as food, clothing, and hygiene products. The organization prioritizes the safety, welfare, and well-being of every child they serve, ensuring that every child has access to survival, protection, development, and participation. The organization is proud to have joined the world in commemorating this year’s International Day for Street Children.

Mrs. Efuwape, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, who was represented by Mr. Fashina, highlighted the importance of being safe while on the street and praised the efforts of the Global Support for Kids Initiative in helping street-connected children become better individuals in society. He further emphasized that the organization continues to encourage street children to learn skills or acquire formal education in school.

In addition, representatives from the Nigeria Police Force and Nigeria Security Civil Defense Corps emphasized the need to take good care of street children and advised them to abstain from illegal acts. They also encouraged the society at large to show love and care to street children.

Mr. Seun Olaniyi, a community actor, commended the Executive Director for the good work and advised the children to always exhibit good behavior. The event was educative and entertaining, with various game activities, such as passing around the box, dancing on stage, Feeding and hygiene product distribution, which were enjoyed by the street children.

The Ministry of Women Affairs, Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security Civil Defense Corps, Past Immediate Co-coordinator Child Protection Network Ogun Chapter, Secretary Lafenwa Market, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Volunteers, and Community Actors were all present at the event.