8.5%
Of people in Lagos live in poverty
Urban inequality is a challenge
The standard of living in Lagos is generally high. However, the distribution of wealth is extremely unequal and 8.5% of people live in poverty. Hundreds of thousands of people come to the city every year hoping to improve their living conditions, making it one of the fastest growing cities in the world.
However, the rapid growth of the city has led to overcrowding, lack of infrastructure, great poverty and growing slums. Children suffer greatly growing up in these conditions, as they are vulnerable to diseases and often drop out of school and go to work.
190,000
People in Nigeria are infected with HIV every year
HIV/AIDS is widespread
Lagos is an extremely densely populated city and, as in other parts of the country, the spread of HIV/AIDS is a serious challenge. Over 190,000 people in Nigeria are newly infected every year, including children.
In addition, many children are indirectly affected as their parents fall ill. These children are at risk of losing parental care or being left entirely on their own. They have to beg or work to make ends meet and rarely go to school. Without education, children and young people have a hard time escaping the vicious circle of poverty.
Your support makes a difference for children in Isolo
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.
10
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
Are supported on their way to independence
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Learning to take photos. Children and young people in our care develop their interests as they grow up and become independent (photo: SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria).
How your support helps in Isolo
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.