The Association of Orphanages and Home Operators in Nigeria (ASOHON) has raised concerns over the inadequate implementation of the Child Rights Act, 2003, which continues to hinder the growth of foster care in various parts of the country.
Speaking at the opening of a two-day seminar in Abuja, ASOHON’s National President, Rev. Gabriel Oyediji, emphasized the urgent need for nationwide enforcement of the Act. The seminar, themed “From Vulnerability to Stability: Time to Strengthen Foster Care in Nigeria,” brought together coordinators and stakeholders to address key issues affecting alternative child care.
Rev. Oyediji noted that many states have yet to fully implement the Act, despite its provisions aimed at protecting children in alternative care. He stressed that while orphanages serve as temporary shelters, they are not a long-term solution for child welfare. Citing research, he explained that children develop best in family environments where they experience love, belonging, and emotional support.
According to him, foster care provides a stable and nurturing home for children while upholding their dignity and rights. However, challenges such as inadequate policies, limited public awareness, insufficient funding, and a lack of support for foster parents continue to hamper its development in Nigeria.
To address these issues, Rev. Oyediji urged the government to introduce financial incentives for foster families and enhance the training of social workers and child welfare officers. He emphasized that fostering a sustainable system requires collaboration among stakeholders to advocate for policies that prioritize family-based care over institutional care.
He further stated that for foster care to succeed, foster parents must receive adequate training, emotional support, and financial assistance to provide the best environment for children.
The seminar focused on alternative care strategies for vulnerable children, with ASOHON partnering with SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria to raise awareness and promote family-based care.
Eghosa Erhumwunse, Country Director of SOS, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to improving alternative care systems for children in Nigeria. Additionally, Mr. Chijioke Nwakadu, representing SOS, highlighted that the seminar would serve as a platform to address concerns over the misuse of orphanages for illicit activities.
Mrs. Sandra Chikan, ASOHON’s Vice President for the Northern Region, revealed that over 550 organizations are registered under ASOHON to monitor child care activities and combat criminal practices. She noted that the association is actively working with the government to address child trafficking, particularly in conflict-affected regions, and to tackle its root causes.
Chikan expressed confidence that the seminar would help identify key challenges and propose effective solutions to strengthen foster care and child protection systems in Nigeria.