Owu Ijebu

SOS Children’s Villages supports individual children, young people and families so that they can thrive (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria).

Owu-Ijebu is located in southwestern Nigeria in Ogun State, which has a population of almost 4 million. The region is predominantly rural and its economy is based on mining and agriculture. Although the pace of life here is much slower and less competitive than in Nigeria’s big cities, unemployment and poverty levels continue to affect the rural population. While thousands migrate to the cities in search of a better life, those who stay behind live off farming and often struggle to make a living. Infrastructure such as sanitation, health care and educational facilities is often lacking in rural areas, which affects children and young people in particular.

Since 1996, SOS Children’s Villages has been supporting children, young people and families and advocating for their rights in Owu Ijebu.

2 in 3
Households in Ogun do not have access to drinking water

Infrastructure is lacking in rural areas

In rural areas of Ogun State, basic infrastructure is in need of improvement. Only about 2 out of 3 households have access to a safe source of drinking water, and only a fraction have access to sanitation facilities that they do not have to share with others. The lack of sanitation increases the risk of waterborne diseases, which are particularly dangerous for children. In addition, many children show signs of growth problems, as about 40 percent of children under five are too short for their age. This is a result of malnutrition. Due to limited medical care, this often goes untreated and can have long-term negative effects for the children.

32%
Of women in Ogun cannot read

Women and girls are at a disadvantage

Although the role of women in Nigerian society is gradually changing, there is still the need for changes that will empower girls and women. Girls are less likely to receive an education and female literacy is particularly low in Ogun State. In fact, only 68 percent of women can read. The effects of not reading can have serious consequences for women and their opportunities in life - illiteracy can lead to unemployment and low community involvement.

Your support makes a difference for children in Owu Ijebu

SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities to offer a wide range of support that is adapted to the local context. We always work in the best interest of the children, young people and families.
310
Families
Can stay together
70
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
40
Young people
Are supported on their way to independence
Older sister helping the younger one with drawing. Siblings grow up together, and often form bonds that last a lifetime (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria).

How your support helps in Owu Ijebu

Strengthening vulnerable families and communities
When parents face hardships, they can sometimes struggle to give children the care they need. SOS Children’s Villages works with local partners and communities. Each family needs different support so that they can stay together. This support can include workshops on parenting and children’s rights. We also run training so that parents can get the skills they need to get a job or start their own businesses. Likewise, we ensure that children can get medical help and go to school.
Caring for children who cannot live with their families
Some children cannot stay with their families, even with additional support. When this happens, they can find a new home in SOS Children’s Villages. Here the children can build safe and lasting relationships. All the children in our care have access to education and healthcare. Wherever possible, we work closely with the children’s family of origin. If children can return to live with their families, we help them adapt to this change.
Supporting young people to become independent
To help young people become confident and independent, our local team works closely with each young person to develop a plan for their future. We support young people and also help them prepare for the labour market and increase their employment prospects. For example, young people can attend workshops and trainings run by SOS Children’s Villages. They also improve their skills through taking part in different projects with local mentors and businesses.