SOS Urges Federal Government to Address 18 Million Out-of-School Children

SOS Children’s Village Nigeria has called on the Federal Government to prioritize investments in education and child welfare to ensure that all children have access to quality schooling.

Atulegwu Favour, Deputy Speaker of the SOS Youth Parliament, stressed the urgent need for government intervention to address the escalating challenges faced by children nationwide. “Children in Nigeria face numerous threats including hunger, environmental hazards, violence, and kidnapping,” Favour stated. “We are united in our demand for peace through proper nutrition, a clean environment, and the resolution of crises affecting our communities.”

Favour highlighted the concerning state of education in Nigeria, noting that 18 million children are out of school due to factors such as poverty, conflict, and instability. She pointed out that approximately 70% of Nigerian children live in poverty, often exacerbated by neglect and abandonment, and that six out of ten children experience violence with minimal support.

“Peace is not merely the absence of conflict; it is essential for securing quality education and improving life conditions,” Favour emphasized. “Our ‘Stomping for Peace’ campaign aims to advocate for peace against child labor, trafficking, neglect, and abandonment, among other issues.”

Eyekomagba Isaac Chimezie, another member of the SOS Youth Parliament, expressed concerns about malnutrition and climate risks affecting children. He revealed that over 2 million children are severely malnourished, hindering their growth and potential.

Chimezie urged stakeholders at all levels to unite in supporting Nigerian children. “We must collectively work to end violence, malnutrition, and insecurity, and ensure that every child grows up in a safe and supportive environment. It is crucial to invest in quality education and build a future free from the threats of kidnapping and crisis.”