COALITION SEEKS BETTER STATUS FOR VULNERABLE CHILDREN IN NIGERIA

By Gloria Ile

The coalition of orphanages and children’s home in Nigeria (COCHIN) says the work of looking after orphans and vulnerable children cannot be handled by one association, caregiver or coalition alone.

President of the coalition Eze Ajoku while formally inaugurating the coalition in Abuja, said caregivers face a lot of difficulty in taking care of orphans and called on the leaders and privileged few to help in ensuring orphans and vulnerable children are given proper recognition as part and members of the society. 

“By the theme of today’s event, proprietors of orphanages and children homes are crying out to you: fellow Nigerians, Like a drop…… it counts. You may choose to donate or make a pledge to us today. Whilst COHIN ensures that its members carry out its mandates, we appeal to the public to come to our aid.” Ajoku said.

National Secretary of the coalition Rev father Clement Odoemene (CSSR) said the coalition seeks to gather owners of orphanages under one umbrella and give them voice so they can be properly heard. “its all about gathering ourselves together to form a coalition so we can relate very well with social welfare”.

Odoemene said the coalition has also put in place measures to curb child trafficking in orphanages.
The coalition which was formed on the 18th of May 2016, currently has about 32 registered members under its umbrella.