By Our Correspondent
Lagos, Feb. 5, ’25 (TNZ) WaterAid Nigeria says it trained 40 community leaders in Ikorodu North LCDA as community Safeguarding Champions to protect children’s rights at the grassroots.
TheNewsZenith reports that Kimberly Clark, Microsoft, PepsiCo Foundation and Cummins, supported the training.
The training aimed to educate participants on WaterAid’s safeguarding guidelines, their application and reporting mechanisms for safeguarding concerns involving children under 18.
Speaking at the event, WaterAid Nigeria’s Safeguarding Focal Person in Lagos, Mrs Grace Uwadiale, said all children have the right to be protected from physical, emotional and sexual abuse and neglect.
Uwadiale reiterated that WaterAid has zero tolerance for inaction on safeguarding issues.
She urged victims to speak out and seek psychosocial support.
“Safeguarding is not only about children but also includes vulnerable adults such as women, people with disabilities, and marginalized groups,” TheNewsZenith quotes her as noting.
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the focal person explained that the trained champions are responsible for raising awareness in their communities.
They will also report safeguarding incidents within 24 hours and escalate cases beyond the community level when necessary.
Prince Adeniran Ogunbanwo, the Chairman of the Community Development Committee, commended WaterAid Nigeria for empowering rural communities with critical safeguarding knowledge.
Ogunbanwo said the trainees would share the knowledge gained in schools, religious gatherings and community events. This is to ensure wider awareness.
He also urged parents and guardians to be more vigilant in monitoring their children’s activities to prevent sexual harassment, intimidation and violence. (TNZ)
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