27%
Of people in Nigeria have access to safe water
Urban infrastructure and inequality
Overall, Abuja is a relatively prosperous city. However, there is visible income inequality. While the city centre is well planned, many people who moved to Abuja in the hope of a better life have settled in the outskirts, where poverty and unemployment remain a challenge.
Housing conditions and basic sanitation are very poor. Very few families have their own toilet and only 27% of people in the country have access to clean drinking water.
Children are particularly at risk of falling ill under these conditions, and child mortality due to diarrheal diseases is still high.
10.5M
Of Nigerian children under 14 are not in school
Children are out of school
Poverty in Nigeria has increased and the gap between rich and poor is widening. Children are often expected to contribute to the household income and even very young children begging on the streets are a common sight in Abuja. These children do not go to school, let alone complete their education. Although school enrolment rates have greatly improved in the country, over 10 million children under the age of 14 are not in school and literacy rates remain low.
Young people lack future prospects and often struggle to escape the cycle of poverty. They are also vulnerable to a life of crime or violence.
Your support makes a difference for children in Gwagwalada
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.
Are supported in the community
80
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
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We work in partnership with governments and communities to reach out to families facing hardship. Our aim is to alleviate their hardship and ensure stable family environments so that children are protected and well cared for (photo: SOS Children's Villages Nigeria).
How your support helps in Gwagwalada
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.
Providing quality education
SOS Children’s Villages ensures that children and young people have access to high-quality education. We help them learn and develop in a safe and supportive environment. We train teachers on children’s rights and child-centered learning, so that each child can get the most out of their education. Young children spend time playing and learning at kindergarten. This prepares them for primary 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.