Executive Director, Hope For Second Chance Foundation, HOSEC, Mrs Ibukunoluwa Otesile says the foundation has been at the forefront of advocacy to create safer environments for every Nigerian child.
Otesile made this known in her remarks at the 6th anniversary ceremony of the foundation held on Wednesday, 15th May, 2024.
She said “As HOSEC Foundation marks its sixth anniversary, we proudly reflect on our journey in championing the cause against all forms of child abuse. Since our inception six years ago, we have been at the forefront of the battle to create safer environments for The Nigerian Child.
“Established in 2018, HOSEC Foundation was born out of a vision to eradicate the scourge of child abuse in all its forms. Over the past six years, we have tirelessly worked towards this goal through various initiatives, partnerships, and advocacy campaigns.
“Through our multifaceted approach, we have made significant strides in raising awareness about the prevalence and impact of child sexual abuse, Female Genital Mutilation, Child Labour and Trafficking. From educational programmes in schools to rehabilitation of out of school children to community outreach initiatives, we have empowered over 20,000 children and adolescents with the knowledge and tools to recognize and prevent abuse.
Otesile explained that with collaboration with governments, NGOs/CSOs and other stakeholders the foundation advocated for policy changes and legislative reforms that gave birth to the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law, The Sexual &Gender Based Violence Centre Law among others.
She the advocacy was aimed at strengthening child protection laws and enhancing support systems for victims of abuse.
“Holding several stakeholder dialogues, we contribute to shaping a more robust framework for safeguarding children’s rights.
“OUR IMPACT STORY on VULNERABLE CHILD EMPOWERMENT Include but Not Limited To:
10,000,000 + SOCIAL MEDIA ADVOCACY
4 Editions of Stakeholders Dialogue
3 Editions of Female BASKET BALL
3 Editions of Oratory Contest Among Public Schools Students
100+ Volunteers Across 10 States of The Nation
45+ WASSEC REGISTRATION FOR Indigent Students
5000+ Girls Trained in Diverse Skills
5,000+ Sanitary Pads Distributed
Over 208 Sexual Abuse Cases Responded to In Collaboration with Government and Other Stakeholders
“We are incredibly proud to celebrate six years of tireless dedication to our mission of ensuring a safer environment for the Nigerian Child. “While we have made significant progress, there is still much work to be done.
“Therefore, I call on our lovers of children to join us to ensure the future of our country Nigeria is preserved! I must thank all our State and Non – State partners, sponsors for the constant support. You make the enormous task less daunting.
“To the HOSEC Foundation Family: the Governing Board, The Pool of self-less Volunteers and Staff, Thank you! Cheers to more years. Remember, the reward for great work is even more work!
“It is pertinent to note that we would be celebrating this year with our Flag at half mast because we are yet to fully come to terms with the passing of our dearly beloved Chairman, Governing Council, Mr Jide Adesina! We know his soul is resting already, so we say, May His Legacies continue to speak loudly.
“Nonetheless, we kick started the anniversary with the 4th edition of our stakeholder’s dialogue at the Merit House Abuja with Hon. Stanley Adedeji Olajide Odidiomo as our Chairman on the 13th May, 2024. After our visit to 6 Boys only Schools in Ibadan, we would climax the Celebration with the 3rd edition of our Oratory Contest on Friday 17th May at the American Corner with over 50 students from state schools speaking to win the Orator of the Year Prize.
“As we climb the seventh ladder, we look to the future, we re-affirm we will remain steadfast in our commitment to creating a world where every child can grow up safe, healthy, and protected. We re-affirm our commitment to amplifying the voices of children, advocating for their rights, and working towards a future free from abuse. We invite individuals, organizations, and communities to join hands in this critical mission and be part of the collective effort to ensure the well-being and safety of every child.
