With a focus on enhancing the lives of  children by way of encouraging social awareness, advocacy and education, Live Abundantly!, in partnership with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) and National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP),  has organised a children’s awareness initiative.

The event which was a gathering of school pupils from the Ikorodu axis held at the Homat Event Centre, Igbogbo under the theme ‘Safeguarding our children’. It also coincided with the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

In his opening remarks, the Adeboruwa of Igbogbo kingdom, HRH Oba Abdulsemiu Orimadegun Kasali extolled the activities of the NGO which he described as a veritable avenue for creating awareness and social consciousness. He also paid kudos to the teachers for imbibing discipline into the school kids.

Princess Aderenle Adeniran Ogunsanya, Dr. Ama, HRH Oba Abdulsemiu Orimadegun Kasali, Prince Oguntayo, Mr. Gbenga Faniyi

In a goodwill message by the Tutor General/PS Lagos state Education district II, Mrs, Anike Adekanye, she noted that children are vulnerable to physical, sexual and emotional violations and exploitation and thus need to be constantly protected to achieve their dreams.

She called on everyone to be involved in safeguarding and protecting kids and thanked Live Abundantly! for their efforts at enlightenment.

During a panel of discussion which focused on Equality, Peace and Migration, the Founder & Executive Director of Live Abundantly!, Dr. Ama said the organisation is focused on attaining its set global goals which includes gender equality, good health and well being, quality education, reduced inequalities and ensuring peace, justice and strong institutions.

She noted that the average age of trafficked children in Nigeria is 15 years and thus reveals how serious the scourge is. She also called for the domestication of the child right law across the country beyond the present 24 states.

Discussions from the panel also revealed that the International Organisation on Migration (IOM) has registered more than 600,000 Nigerians in Libya, 71% of which are women and girls.

Other activities lined up to mark the occasion include a debate on the the dangers of drug abuse, drama performance, spelling bee and quiz competition.

Children’s Awareness Initiative is a platform which aims to enhance social education of school
students on the prevalence and consequences on social ills which are damaging individual personal rights
and development, families and communities.

Prince Gbenga Oguntayo is the Chairperson of Live Abundantly!.