Professor Valen Emeka Obinna, dean of the Faculty of Humanities at [Imo State University](https://www.imsu.edu.ng), urged immediate institutional reforms and continuous public awareness drives to combat child abuse across Nigeria, emphasizing that protection of children’s rights requires coordinated action from families, schools, religious bodies and government agencies.
He presented a paper titled “Eradicating Child Abuse Through Institutional Reforms and Public Orientation” at a weekend programme in Owerri organised by the human‑rights group [Stand For Humanity Foundation](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stand_For_Humanity_Foundation). In the document, he highlighted the rising prevalence of physical, emotional, psychological, sexual, educational, social and economic abuse and warned of the severe impact on children’s development.
**What forms of abuse did the professor identify?**
He explained that maltreatment can occur in homes, schools, places of worship and other community settings, manifesting as excessive punishment, neglect, sexual violence, child labour and exploitation.
**How should society respond to child abuse?**
Obinna argued that abuse must not be dismissed as a private family issue. He urged parents and caregivers to adopt child‑centred approaches that stress love, patience, guidance and positive role‑modelling rather than hostility or harsh discipline. “Children need to be taught by adult examples and not punishment,” he said.
**Which stakeholders did he call upon?**
The professor appealed to families, educational institutions, religious organisations, government agencies, the media and other relevant parties to ensure children receive adequate nutrition, shelter, education, health care and security. He also recommended sustained public‑orientation campaigns through traditional and social media, schools, churches, hospitals, motor parks and community groups, delivered in English, Nigerian Pidgin and local languages.
**What role can the creative sector play?**
Obinna suggested that musicians, filmmakers and advertisers produce content that promotes responsible parenting and raises awareness about the dangers of child abuse.
**Which agencies should collaborate on child protection?**
He urged stronger partnerships with bodies such as the [National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP)](https://naptip.gov.ng), the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, [UNICEF](https://www.unicef.org/nigeria), UNESCO and Amnesty International to advance child‑protection initiatives and curb violence against children.
While acknowledging that eradicating abuse entirely may be difficult, Obinna maintained that coordinated efforts by individuals, families, institutions and society could markedly reduce its incidence and safeguard the younger generation.
In parallel, Chidiebube Okeoma, president of Stand For Humanity Foundation, reiterated the organisation’s dedication to protecting children, promising to intensify actions against abusers and deepen collaborations with relevant institutions. He called for collective, sustained action to create safe, supportive environments for children, while Obinna encouraged the foundation to continue its advocacy and promote children’s participation in educational, recreational, sporting and community activities under proper adult supervision.