15 Nov 50 Years of Impact: Nurturing Futures, Transforming Lives

Abuja, FCT — SOS Children’s Villages in Nigeria, an international, non-governmental, social development organization that works in 137 countries and territories to find the most appropriate response to the situation of children at risk of losing parental care and those without parental care, is excited to mark a significant milestone – our 50th anniversary. For half a century, we have been dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable children in Nigeria and we’re thrilled to celebrate this remarkable journey.

Established in 1974, SOS Children’s Villages in Nigeria has been at the forefront of championing the rights and welfare of children in Nigeria. Our journey began in Isolo, Lagos Nigeria, with a commitment to providing quality alternative care, education, healthcare, and support for underprivileged children, and we have continued to expand our reach and impact over the years. Currently, we have a programmatic presence in states like Ogun, Lagos, Plateau, Oyo, Edo, Kaduna, Borno, Benue, Rivers, Imo, and the FCT

As we commemorate 50 years of service to children and their families, we are proud to reflect on our accomplishments:

1. Alternative Care: SOS Children’s Villages in Nigeria has been at the forefront of advocating for quality Alternative Care services for children in Nigeria, including partnering with government on several levels to develop and adopt alternative care guidelines for children. We have also over the years supported the Nigerian Government in providing Alternative Care services for vulnerable children.
2. Child Protection: SOS Children’s Villages has partnered with several local Community-Based Organization to set up child protection networks and also enhanced their capacity to address child protection issues within their immediate communities. We have been a vocal advocate for child rights and protection, leading efforts to combat child labor, trafficking, and abuse.
3. Empowerment Programs: We have empowered countless children and young persons with life skills, vocational training, mentorship, and internship placement opportunities through our various youth development programmes. The aim is to equip young people with skills for self-sufficiency.
4. Humanitarian Action: SOS Children’s Villages has been a steadfast presence in times of crisis, providing emergency relief and support to children and families affected by natural disasters and conflicts.

To celebrate our 50th anniversary, SOS Children’s Villages is organizing a series of events throughout November 2023, including our charity gala and a football competition for young people in our programmes. We invite everyone, from our dedicated volunteers and supporters to our partners and friends, to join us in these celebrations.

“It’s a momentous occasion for us, and when we look back at our impact over the years, our resolve to ensure that every child belongs to a family and grows with love, respect, and security is further strengthened,” said Eghosa Erhumwunse the Country Director for SOS Children’s Villages in Nigeria. He continues, “Our 50-year journey has been a testament to the power of collective action. The challenges facing children may evolve, but our commitment to making a positive change in their lives remains unwavering.”

As we look to the future, SOS Children’s Villages in Nigeria remains dedicated to its mission of building families for children in need, helping them shape their futures, and sharing in the development of their communities. We aim to build on our legacy of service to make an even greater impact in the years to come.

For more information on our 50th-anniversary celebrations, sponsorship, and partnership information, kindly send an email to Wilson Ikwebe at fiftieth.anniversary@sos-nigeria.org. To learn more about our work, please visit our website at www.sosvillages-nigeria.org

About SOS Children’s Villages

SOS Children’s Villages is an international, non-governmental, social development organization that works in 137 countries and territories to find the most appropriate response to the situation of children at risk of losing parental care and those without parental care.  Since 1973, SOS Children’s Villages has been active in Nigeria, with a presence across the country in Lagos, Ogun, Plateau, Oyo, Edo, Kaduna, and Borno States as well as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Our care solutions include Alternative Care for Children, Family Strengthening, Youth Development, Advocacy, and Emergency Response. To help break the cycle of poverty and exclusion, we are engaged in building the capacities and resilience of families and communities.

SOS Children’s Villages in Nigeria is celebrating 50 years of making a difference in the lives of children. Join us in our mission to create a brighter future for the world’s most vulnerable.