By Isaiah Eka
An Uyo-based group, Street Mentors Network has donated foodstuff, books, drugs and other items to support the welfare of no fewer that 530 vulnerable children in Akwa Ibom.
The Executive Director, Ms Anny Michael said at a press conference in Uyo on Monday that the gesture was to commemorate the 2026 International Day of Street Children.
Michael said that the donations were targeted mainly at street children, orphans and children from low-income homes.
She said that the initiative was designed to support vulnerable children, and reduce the hardship faced by poor families.
”Across Akwa Ibom and Nigeria, children find themselves on the street due to poverty and family instability. They face abuse, stigmatisation, neglect and lack of access to education,” she said.
The executive director said that the group had organised empowerment programmes for 359 girls, trained 105 young people in vocational skills, and engaged 25 boys through sports mentorship.
“As an organisation, we have reached out to no fewer than 10,000 people through advocacy campaigns,” she further said.
Michael urged governments at various levels to strengthen child protection systems, and end the criminalisation of acts perpetrated by street-connected children.
“Governments and other stakeholders should invest in education, shelter and reintegration programmes for street children,” she said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme for 2026 International Day of Street Children is: “Protect, Do not Punish” NAN
