Oyo State, located in southwestern Nigeria with Ibadan as its capital, faces significant challenges related to child labor. Many children in vulnerable groups lack access to education, and some are exposed to exploitation, abuse, and trafficking. A collaborative approach involving multiple stakeholders is crucial to tackling these issues effectively. Since 2022, SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria has been implementing a four-year program aimed at supporting children’s holistic development and strengthening family and community safety nets for over 85,000 vulnerable children and their caregivers in Ibadan's Sasa and surrounding areas.
This initiative has improved access to education and healthcare for 4,759 children and youth and has supported 427 young people in vocational training, empowering many to start their own businesses. Through income-generating groups (VSLAs), over 628 households now have enhanced income capacity, directly benefiting child care. The program has also reached over 70,000 community members through child protection awareness, youth development, and WASH initiatives, while strengthening community-based organizations to drive sustainable change. By partnering with government agencies, the program has contributed to developing a Guideline for Alternative Care for Children in Oyo State, enhancing the care and protection framework for children in need.