We All Have Failed Children: Ending Violence Against Children

“If you see something, say something” This mantra stood out throughout the entire training session on Ending Violence and Abuse Against Children (EVAC) organized by the Cardinal Onaiyekan Foundation for Peace (COFP) on Thursday, 16th October 2025 at Ajuji Greenwich Hotel, Abuja. The One-day workshop brought together over twenty (20) school teachers, religious leaders and care givers, equipping them with the tools needed to protect children in our schools, homes, churches and neighborhoods from violence and abuse. 

A warm welcome address was delivered by the Deputy Director of the Foundation, Rev. Father Boniface Nebo followed by a keynote lecture from Mr. Emezue John Abieukwa, Assistant Director of National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP). He emphasized the rights of children to education, health, survival and protection from harmful practices, violence and exploitation; stressing the urgent need to enforce these rights. Mr. Emezue highlighted the many forms of child abuse, exploitation and human trafficking, as well as their devastating effects on both the daily lives of children and the society at large. According to him, “Children must feel secure enough to speak up about abuse or harassment. It is our duty to protect them and also speak on their behalf incases they are unable to speak for themselves”.

The staff team of the Foundation simultaneously took turns to educate the participants on the above subject matter reminding attendees of their role as stewards, entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring children’s safety. Their presentation highlighted that violence often occurs in familiar spaces stressing the need for vigilance in these environments. The final sessions were very insightful because it gave the team the opportunity to explain the provisions of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989) and the Nigerian Child Rights Act (2003), equipping participants with the legal knowledge to protect children and good parenting.

The workshop concluded with a highly engaging Q & A session and the presentation of certificates to participants representing various schools and institutions within the Federal Capital Territory. The Executive Director of the Foundation, Sr. Agatha Chikelue, towards the close of event, charged participants to take responsibility for the safety of every child committed to their care, including children in their communities for whom they may not have direct responsibility. She urged attendees that all of us have failed children and so, the need to seriously apply the knowledge gained to ensure that children are defended and shielded from all forms of violence and abuse. The event served as a reminder that no violence against children is justifiable or acceptable. All forms of violence are preventable, and it is the collective responsibility of every individual to ensure the safety and well-being of children.