The Salesians of Don Bosco officially opened their new Child Protection Centre in Onipetesi on Tuesday, 28 May 2025. This milestone project aims to take children off the streets, provide them with shelter and care, rehabilitate them, equip them with skills and education, and ultimately reintegrate them into society for a better future.
The Centre’s vision is: “To become a world-class Child Protection and rehabilitation home where vulnerable children and young people can grow and be empowered through education and skills to have dignified lives and become productive and valued citizens of Nigeria.” This project was realised with the support of the Austrian NGO Jugend Eine Welt.
To commission the centre, the First Lady of Lagos State, Her Excellency Dr. (Mrs.) Ibijoke Claudiana Sanwo-Olu graced the occasion as Chief Guest, alongside dignitaries from the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development and other key figures across Lagos.
In her address, the First Lady fondly recalled her upbringing in a Catholic school, sharing how the songs and values she learned helped shape her life. She praised the Salesians’ commitment to youth and community development.
Rev.Fr. Nathaniel Akortsaha, a Salesian of Don Bosco, emphasised the centre’s core mission: “To give a home to vulnerable children in the streets.” He stressed that the Salesians remain committed to providing vulnerable children opportunities to thrive and succeed.
The Bosco Child Protection Centre provides accommodation, education, welfare support, and family reunification services. Inspired by St. Don Bosco’s legacy, the Centre reflects the Salesians’ ongoing mission to give vulnerable youth a meaningful life and a competitive societal edge.
Angela, a tutor at the centre, told Art43 Media that the project offers more than just rehabilitation; it inspires visiting families to appreciate the stability they enjoy. The home serves as an example for them in understanding the plight of children without a home. “Look out for not just basic rehabilitation but for an improved home where the children get vocational training through all the vocational skills acquisition programs put in place in the centre,” she said.
She added that many of the children who have passed through the program have gone on to live productive lives, and she looks forward to seeing the other children succeed.
Mr. Ogunyemi, Financial Secretary of the Lagos State Association of Orphanages Home Operators in Nigeria (ASHON) and owner of Royal Diamond Orphanage Home, applauded the Salesians for taking an extra step by including a bakery and other skill acquisition programs. He stressed that child protection must become a shared responsibility. “This initiative should spark nationwide awareness,” he said. “Every agency, public or private, must rally behind child protection efforts like this.”
The event concluded with the formal commissioning of the Centre by the First Lady, who encouraged the Salesians to continue in their good works.