By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

The SOS Children’s Villages in Nigeria, has reiterated its commitment to creating a sustainable future, where children are empowered to reach their full potential.

The National Director, SOS Children’s Villages in Nigeria, Mr. Eghosa Erhumwunse, made the commitment at the commissioning of a solar-powered potable water facility, renovation of two classroom blocks and classroom furniture at Community Primary School Ikija-Ijebu in Ijebu East local government area of Ogun.

Erhumwunse, who was represented by the Chief Programme Officer, Mr. Ayodeji Adelopo, said the organization remains committed to providing family-like care, empowering caregivers, and ensuring access to quality education and holistic support for vulnerable children.

He noted that every child deserves a safe, clean and supportive environment to learn and grow.

“Today, we are gathered to commission a solar-powered potable water facility providing clean water to over 200 students and the community at large, the renovation of two classroom blocks and classroom furniture at Community Primary School Ikija-Ijebu”.

“These addresses the critical challenges of access to clean water, proper sanitation and quality education. This is laying the groundwork for a healthier, more prosperous future for Ikija-Ijebu”.

“These are not just physical changes. They represent a shift in how we view community development, focusing on sustainable solutions that foster growth and resilience. This is a community-driven effort. Our role is to provide support, but it is the people of Ikija-Ijebu who will continue to carry this forward. Together, we are creating the building blocks for a brighter future”.

He said, “Ikija-Ijebu, has been a huge part of our implementation as an organization, because of their strength and resilience as a community. They have shown great commitment to becoming a place and home for children, nurturing their dreams and hope into reality”.

“SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria supported two village savings and loan association in Ikija community with seed grants to empower caregivers financially, ensuring their children have access to essential needs such as food and healthcare”.

He added that, “a total of 50 caregivers out of the 68 families in Ikija benefitted from this support. Our CBO partner, received sub-grants to provide targeted support to 263 programme participants and other community members, enhancing the overall impact of our interventions”.

“The community was also receptive to the creation of a Children and Youth Council to build the capacity of young people to actively engage in civic matters and advocate for their rights at various levels of governance”.

He said, “SOS Children’s Villages is an esteemed child-centered international organization, committed to providing a loving home and quality education for children who have lost or are at risk of losing parental care in Nigeria since 1973”.

“Through various intervention programmes such as family strengthening and alternative care across eight states of the federation, SOS Children’s Villages has made a significant impact on the lives of vulnerable children”.

“We build families for children in need, we help them shape their own futures, and we share in the development of their communities. We are here for children and young people no matter their background, experience, culture, heritage, religion, sexual orientation, political alignment, gender, disability or origin”.

“They are our priority and we do whatever it takes to ensure that they grow up, empowered with trust and a feeling of belonging.

In his remark, the State Commissioner of Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu commended the management of the SOS Children’s Village for their contributions to children development and empowerment in the State.

Arigbabu, who was represented by Zonal Education Officer, Ijebu East local government, Mr. Valentine Amosu , said the remarkable contributions of the SOS Children’s Village to education in the State will provide conducive teaching and learning environment for both teachers and learners in the State.

He enjoined the management, teachers and pupillary of the school to put the facilities in proper use.

While advising the pupils to pay more attention to their education, he dispelled the insinuation that education is a scam, putting our that through it, they will reach their goals in life.