Nigeria Invests in Parents to Protect Kids in Akwa Ibom

Parents across Nigeria's Akwa Ibom State are getting expert advice through their radios, and the results are strengthening families in measurable ways.

A radio program called "Parenting 101 with Isang" delivers evidence-based parenting tips to families where they already are: listening at home, in cars, and at work. The show makes expert advice accessible to parents who might never attend a formal parenting class.

Government leaders, educators, child protection experts, and community organizations recently gathered at the University of Oxford-funded workshop to review the program's impact. The news was encouraging. Independent evaluation found that parents who listened improved their knowledge, confidence, and use of positive parenting practices.

"Parenting is one of the most important responsibilities adults undertake, yet many parents receive little or no support," said Isang Awah, Head of Advocacy at the Global Parenting Initiative at Oxford. The radio program was designed to fill that gap.

XL106.9 FM has been broadcasting the show, reaching families throughout the region. Station leaders called for expansion through more collaboration and sustained funding, recognizing the unique power of media to drive social change.

The Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare reaffirmed its commitment to supporting families through partnerships and evidence-based programs. Director Enoima Clinton emphasized that when parents receive proper support, children thrive and communities become safer.

The Ripple Effect

The workshop brought together representatives from health, education, faith organizations, and civil society to map out how parenting support can reach even more families. Participants developed concrete recommendations: integrate parenting programs into schools and health services, use trusted community structures and local media, and secure government funding for long-term growth.

The program connects to a broader global movement. Stakeholders learned about the upcoming Second Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children in Manila, where governments worldwide will commit to new child protection measures.

Each participant left the workshop with a personal pledge to strengthen family support in their sector. Some committed to advocating for policy changes, others to building new partnerships, and many to sharing the program's success stories with decision-makers.

The initiative proves that supporting parents doesn't require expensive infrastructure or complicated systems. Sometimes it just takes good information delivered through a trusted medium that families already use every day.