Founder of the Fundawazi Foundation, Mrs. Nomthi Odukoya has noted that the future of Nigeria, the Africa and world in general depends on how much attention is paid to the protection of children by everyone concerned.
Speaking at a press conference which preceding the official launch of the non-governmental organisation, Odukoya, who is wife of the Senior Pastor of The Fountain of Life Church, Ilupeju, Taiwo Odukoya, said that reports about the abuse, molestation and lack of opportunities for children all over the world should worry everyone as it portends very grave dangers for the world.
Mrs. Odukoya who announced that the launch of the Fundawazi Foundation would coincide with the presentation of her new book, “A Bully is not a Hero”, pointed out that every child is entitled to the resources that can be provided to make the world a safe and more fulfilling place for them to live in explaining that this was her main motivation for the establishment of the Foundation. Fundawazi means “learn and know” in Zulu.
“As the great Nelson Mandela once said: ‘There can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way in which it treats its children.’ It is our belief that moving towards the great future ahead of this country, we must come together to put the interest of our children on the front burner. And we must do this in all ramifications. As a mother, I consider any issue that concerns the child anywhere in the world and Nigeria in particular of utmost importance,” She said.
She explained further that the foundation will develop child-friendly resources and tools to equip children and adults in ensuring the safety and wellbeing of children. In her word: “Carrying out empirical research on issues affecting children’s social, emotional and physical wellbeing. Publishing and disseminating books, materials and tools that will serve as conversation starters for children and adults on difficult topics. Organizing forums that will bring key stakeholders together to address critical issues affecting children Carrying out informed advocacy to influence policies, practices and processes that affect children; Using social media platforms to inform the public on topical issues affecting children; building partnerships and collaborations with other NGOs, government agencies and bilateral and multilateral organisations; operating affordable community-based crèches in underprivileged urban communities to assist indigent parents and provide safe environments for children to learn.”
Asked about the impact of her first book “No don’t touch me there” which addressed the issue of child sexual abuse, Mrs. Odukoya explained that the reception of the book showed that parents were willing to access resource on the protection of their children and that it encouraged her to be willing to do all within her power to secure the future of the Nigerian child.
She explained that “A Bully is not a Hero” is because “bullying is one of the social challenges that children face either in school or at home. If the issue is not properly addressed, it can leave a child scarred all through life. There is also a high possibility that a child who has been bullied will end up bullying others or might be involved in domestic violence later in life.”
She thereafter appealed to all Nigerians to join hand with the foundation in the very important cause of the African Child. The Foundation will be launched in commemoration of this year’s edition of Children’s day at the Events Place, Darlington Hall, Plot CDE Industrial Crescent by PZ Industries off Town Planning Way, Ilupeju, Lagos on Tuesday May 26.
