…Calls for universal operational policies for Orphans and Vulnerable Children
The Association of Orphanages and Homes Operators in Nigeria (ASOHON) has called for an overall and universally acceptable operational policies and procedures on Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC).
The National President of the association, Rev. Mrs Dele George made the call at its 2017 conference held recently in Aso Rock Abuja.
According to George, it is time to realize that institutions involved with OVC need an overall and universally acceptable operational policies and procedures.
“Yes, Nigeria has the Child Rights Act of 2007 but how many know what it entails? This is a country where everyone does what is right in their own eyes when it comes to OVC.
“We need government and private support to finance some of our projects. To search out rural orphanages to be equipped and upgraded, ASOHON needs technical and material support. We need encouragement and motivation. We need a forum with federal and state governments for regular consultations and strategic planning which in the long run will eradicate mistrust and suspicion between us.
“Truly, without operators, the future of OVC will be bleak and hopeless but today we can say with the existence of ASOHON and with Her Excellency, Pastor Mrs. Dolapo Osinbajo as our Grand Patron, and above all, with almighty God on our side, we declare that there is hope for orphans and vulnerable children.”
She however urged that all operators in the country should unite to ensure uniformity of practices and end the fragmentation of service delivery systems to OVC.
Speaking on the challenges facing orphanages and Hamelin Nigeria, the Secretary of the association, Rev {Dr} Gabriel Oyediji said, “there is need to transform the perceptions of Government officials and as well as members of the Public to right tracks as to the activities of homes and orphanages in Nigeria is very important”.
According to Oyediji, there are both real and superficial barriers to relating with Governmental bodies in Nigeria and the biggest barrier is distrust.
“Operators are viewed as businessmen and women who have come to merchandize social services in Nigeria.
“One of our aims in this conference is how to develop tools for breaking these barriers and develop greater common understanding, more respectful, collaborative and sincere relationship between ASOHON and Governmental Institutions all over the Country. We urgently need to have a model of communication that is transparent, legal and respective, devoid of discouraging comments, rude reactions and unfair handling of serious matters when attention is most needed. We now require as a matter of urgency, a more serious Governmental attention that specifically addresses the myriad of challenges confronting our association.”
According to him, an effective Government relationship and collaboration will ease the path to accomplishing ASOHON objectives and help forge strong working relationships with various state Governments around the Country.
Also speaking, Her Excellency, Mrs Osinbajo extolled the members of ASOHON. She said, “Posterity will not forget the sacrifices of the caregivers and operators of orphanages. Everyone in this association should endeavor to promote the unity and integrity of the association so as to endear you all and OVC under your care to compassionate Nigerians at home and abroad. You have done really well but there are more hurdles to jump”
She then went ahead as part of her agenda to organize an interactive session for the delegates which led to a lot of new ideas mapping a way forward for the association.
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