On May 14th 2024, GSKi Nigeria held her first of its kind quarterly meeting with children in street situations at Lafenwa, Abeokuta, Ogun State, and Atikankan, Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State. The event saw the participation of 100 children and youths at risk, providing a platform for them to share their experiences and concerns and also to suggest the ways out of them, at least for the initiative to run with.
The meeting was attended by dignitaries, including Mrs. Adenike Ajala, Director Child, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Ogun State. Mr. Adewale Sola, Child Officer from the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Ekiti State, and Inspector Oyewole Meshack from the Railway Police Station in Lafenwa, Abeokuta.
The focus of the gathering was to listen to the views of the children, promote their interests, and discuss ways to enhance their general welfare. The initiative aimed to gather insights on how GSKi can develop robust intervention plan for them as at when due.
During the meeting, the children were given the opportunity to voice their concerns. A significant issue raised was the unjust raids conducted by Police officers, additionally, the children expressed a need for secure accommodation to ensure their protections appropriately.
Mrs. Ajala addressed the children, encouraging them to be good ambassadors of themselves and to comply with the initiative’s guidelines. She emphasized the importance of self-improvement and community cooperation. Other guests and community actors also spoke, offering words of support and advice.
This meeting marks a significant step in GSKi Nigeria’s commitment to addressing the challenges faced by street children and youth at risk, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are met.
