The Blossom Pathway Care Foundation has reaffirmed its commitment to combating child trafficking and supporting vulnerable children.
The foundation made this known during a heartfelt outreach programme at an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp Durumi FCT, Abuja.
With over 1,700 children residing in the camp, the Foundation’s efforts aim to address the severe challenges faced by these children, from education deficits to the threat of trafficking.
Speaking during the event, the project manager of the Foundation, Sholape Lois Fumilayo highlighted the organisation’s dedication to advocacy, aid, and education for vulnerable children.
“Over the past few months, we’ve been visiting to provide food, clothing, and education. Today, we’re here to celebrate the festive season with them, bringing food, clothing, and love to show our support and care for these children and their mothers,” she said.
The Foundation, established with a vision to tackle the pressing issues of child trafficking and child vulnerability, has concentrated its efforts on IDPs’ camps, which are particularly susceptible to trafficking.
Fumilayo revealed a dire lack of educational resources at the camp, with only two teachers catering to over 1,700 children.
“During our last visit, we spoke to about 50 children, mostly girls. Many expressed dreams of becoming doctors but were stuck in arts classes due to a lack of resources and guidance,” she said.
This alarming gap in education has spurred the Foundation to focus on improving access to quality education for the children.
The Blossom Pathway Care Foundation has established partnerships with key stakeholders, including security agencies such as the police and military, as well as the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) and female military veterans.
These collaborations aim to ensure the safety and welfare of children during outreach programmes and to bolster initiatives against trafficking.
“Our primary approach is awareness—awareness is both prevention and protection. By educating people about child trafficking, we aim to reduce its prevalence,” Fumilayo emphasized.
The visit was also an opportunity to spread festive joy. The Foundation team, equipped with food, drinks, clothing, and music, brought smiles to the children’s faces.
“It’s the festive season, and we wanted to share the joy and dance with them,” Fumilayo added.
The celebration included awareness sessions aimed at educating children on the dangers of trafficking and how to protect themselves.
The Foundation secretary, Tolulope David underscored the importance of such outreach programmes.
“Our primary aim for this visit is to bring joy and happiness to these children, especially during this season. IDP camps are particularly vulnerable to child trafficking, and we want to educate the children on what trafficking is and how they can protect themselves,” David said.
The Foundation also used the occasion to advocate for greater government involvement in supporting vulnerable communities.
“The government needs to prioritize places like this, ensuring their safety is included in the national budget,” Fumilayo urged.
She emphasized the importance of regular monitoring to prevent cases of missing children in overcrowded camps.
The Blossom Pathway Care Foundation concluded its visit with a message of hope and a call to action.
“Every child deserves love, education, care, and support from society. We need everyone’s help to spread awareness about child trafficking and its dangers,” David said.
He noted that with a commitment to advocacy, education, and support, the Foundation is creating a pathway for a brighter future for Nigeria’s most vulnerable children.
