Cardinal Onaiyekan Foundation for Peace (COFP), in collaboration with the Global Network of Religion for Children (GNRC) marked the 2017 United Nations Declaration on the Rights of the Child (UNDRC) in Wassa & Yimitu Internally Displaced Persons IDP Camps in Abuja Nigeria. Commemorating the UNDRC has become an annual event for COFP because, it gives the Foundation the opportunity to set a day aside for prayer and action for children. Most children living in IDP camps in Nigeria are faced with health challenges ranging from measles, cholera, worm, malaria and other nutrition deficiency. A lot of them have died as a result of outbreaks of diseases in camps while more are still at risk. Tackling this problem requires a holistic approach by Nigeria government, but since all hands must be on deck for a more effective result, COFP embarked on a free medical outreach titled “Investing in Children – Our Priority” for 400 children in both camps. Tests were carried out and drugs/vaccines administered on the following health issues:
- Typhoid fever
- Malaria
- Scabies
- Deworming of children
- Cough
Children were provided with recreational playground such as princess fun-city, princess bouncing castle, balloon maze and so on. Those treated were entertained with the recreational facilities provided. Also refreshment and music were provided to enable the children have fun on their day.
