The Cece Yara Child Advocacy Center has concluded its Safe Nets Awareness Program in Surulere Local Government Area, reaching more than 600 students across Stadium High School and Ajigbeda Junior High School.
The programme is designed to empower children with knowledge of their rights and protection from exploitation, using interactive activities to guide participants through topics including the Child Rights Act (2003), the dangers of exploitative child domestic work, and practical safety strategies.
The training revealed concerning realities about child vulnerability in Lagos, with 11% of participants identifying as child domestic workers. Additionally, 43% reported engaging in hawking or trading for their parents after school hours, with 90% of these activities taking place by the roadside.
According to Cece Yara, these findings highlight the vulnerability of children in Surulere and the urgent need for interventions that protect their dignity and safety.
The programme used manuals, workbooks and interactive activities to teach children about their rights and safety, with facilitators employing storytelling techniques including “Amina’s Journey” to help children connect emotionally with the issues.
Students who completed the programme pledged to share the Cece Yara Child Helpline (0800-800-8001) with friends, report abuse to school counselors or social workers, and speak up without fear.
The Safe Nets Awareness Program is sponsored by Freedom Fund and funded by GIFT of the US Government, underscoring the global commitment to protecting children from abuse and exploitation.
The Cece Yara Child Advocacy Center is dedicated to preventing child sexual abuse and exploitation, providing rescue, shelter, counseling, and legal support to children in need.
