Oyo, UNICEF Launch Positive Parenting Initiative

The Oyo State Government, in partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and Value Female Network Africa (VFN), initiated the Gender Transformative Positive Parenting Programme 1.0. This programme commenced with a two-day training for community facilitators held on September 2 and 3, 2026, in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Denis Onoise, Child Protection Specialist at UNICEF Lagos Field Office, emphasized the importance of empowering parents and caregivers to prevent violence against children and enhance the child protection system. He stated that parents are the first protective environment for children and that strengthening their knowledge can help identify risks and connect children to necessary services.

Costly Aderibigbe-Saba, Executive Director of VFN, highlighted that the programme aims to address harmful social norms and practices while fostering safe, respectful, and supportive home environments for children. The curriculum includes various child protection issues, ensuring parents are equipped to handle multiple vulnerabilities their children may face.