UNICEF, Edo State Government Joins Effort to Safeguard the Future of Children

By Ebuanekpe Joy

The enhanced collaboration between UNICEF and Edo State Government is a powerful affirmation of our commitment to protect and promote the rights and well-being of every child.

We recognize that a child’s success is inextricably linked to the health and support provided to their mothers, as well as to a nurturing environment that fosters overall development.

At a recent event held at the Ministry’s Conference Hall in Benin City, the Edo State Social and Behavioral Change Committee (SBCC) was officially inaugurated. The launch, presided over by Hon. Paul Ohonbamu, Commissioner for Information and Communication, and represented by Dr. Desmond Agbama, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, served as a vital platform to emphasize the importance of integrated care for children from conception through early childhood.

Members of committee making their pledges

At UNICEF, we know that the early stages of life are crucial. Mrs. Akinola Aderonke, our SBC facilitator from the Lagos Field Branch, underscored in her presentation that a child’s well-being begins at conception. She highlighted the importance of robust antenatal and postnatal care and addressed critical issues within the first 1000 days of life—including low or non-intake of immunization, inadequate nutrition, and other challenges that mothers and children face.

The SBCC is composed of members drawn from the health sector, non-governmental organizations, media organizations, and other key stakeholders, such as agencies responsible for access to clean water, women’s affairs, and gender issues. This strategic assembly is tasked with spearheading initiatives aimed at changing behaviors at both individual and community levels. It is designed to tackle persistent challenges such as child abuse, molestation, trafficking, and other threats to child welfare by shifting harmful social and gender norms and removing barriers that hinder a child’s healthy development.

UNICEF commends the Edo State Government for its unwavering commitment to these initiatives. Our strengthened partnership is not only a clear demonstration of our shared goals but also a promise to work together in driving sustainable change that ensures every child has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential.

The event concluded with productive breakout sessions, during which participants exchanged strategies to improve outcomes for mothers and children during the critical first 1000 days of life. This collaborative approach exemplifies our joint efforts to safeguard the future of the children in Edo State.