The Women Organized for Mentorship and Advocacy Network (WOMAN) has carried out a comprehensive sensitization programme at Community Secondary School, Swaile, Yenagoa, as part of activities marking this year’s International Children’s Day. The outreach, anchored on the theme “My Right to Live, My Right to Be Alive,” focused on educating students about their rights, personal safety, and the need to remain vigilant against all forms of abuse and exploitation.
Speaking during the event, the Executive Director of WOMAN, Lady Eunice Nnachi, emphasized the importance of children speaking out when faced with bullying, harassment, or violence. She noted that many young people suffer in silence due to fear or intimidation, stressing that reporting harmful experiences to trusted adults can save lives.
“Silence can be dangerous, but openness can save lives,” she told the students, encouraging them to confide in parents, guardians, or teachers whenever they feel unsafe.
The second phase of the programme featured presentations from partner agencies who expanded the conversation on child rights, protection, and emotional well-being.
In a keynote address delivered on behalf of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Mr. Opara Uzoamaka, representing Dr. Eugene Badoo, reminded the students that every child is entitled to life, education, dignity and protection as guaranteed by the Child Rights Act. He cautioned parents against using fear or threats to compel children to do chores, noting that such actions can cause emotional harm and reduce a child’s sense of self-worth.
Representing the Ag. State Commander of NAPTIP, Mr. Fadeware Timiebiowei, the Head of Public Enlightenment, Mr. Sambo Wariebi, underscored the inherent dignity of every child and warned against all forms of abuse and molestation. He urged the students to be cautious of individuals making deceptive promises of jobs, scholarships or foreign opportunities, explaining that traffickers often use such tactics to lure unsuspecting minors.
“You are the future leaders of tomorrow. Do not allow anyone to derail your dreams or hinder the greatness you are destined for,” he advised.
The State Coordinator of the Center for Clinical Care and Clinical Research Nigeria (CCCRN), Mr. Moses Olleh, delivered a goodwill message highlighting the need for nurturing environments where children can learn, dream and thrive. He called on stakeholders to remain committed to policies and programmes that safeguard children’s development.
Representing the Principal of the school, Mrs. Tonbara Joel expressed deep appreciation to WOMAN and its partner agencies for choosing Community Secondary School, Swaile, for such a transformative initiative. She described the programme as an eye-opener that equipped the students with knowledge necessary for navigating daily challenges safely and confidently.
The event also featured an engaging interactive session where students asked questions, shared concerns, and received practical guidance on staying safe both in and out of school. Facilitators stressed the importance of reporting suspicious activities, avoiding dangerous situations, and maintaining open communication with trusted adults.
As part of the outreach, educational materials on children’s rights, safety tips, writing materials, and reporting channels were distributed to the students.
A leadership expert representing the Eunice Nnachi Women Advocacy Foundation (ENWAF), Mr. Solomon Simon, commended the students for their resilience, enthusiasm and willingness to learn. He encouraged them to remain focused, confident and open to opportunities that will strengthen their leadership abilities and shape a successful future.
The programme ended with a renewed commitment from WOMAN and its partners to continue championing child rights, safety, and awareness across schools in Bayelsa State—ensuring that every child understands their right to live, be protected and thrive.
