07/07/2026
As part of activities commemorating the Day of the African Child 2026, the Cece Yara Child Advocacy Centre, an implementation partner of The Freedom Fund, organized the Nigeria Hotspot Programme on the theme " Addressing Exploitative Child Domestic Work" on Thursday, 25 June 2026 at NECA House (Kano Hall), Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos
The event brought together government agencies, development partners, civil society organizations, educators, child protection practitioners, and children to advocate for the protection of children from exploitation while promoting access to education, dignity, and child rights.
The Deborah International Outreach was proudly represented through Christ Model School, its tuition-free mission school serving children from underserved and marginalized communities in Agbojetho, Badagry.
Our learner, Blessing Adegboye, an 11-year-old missionary child and beneficiary of the Child Domestic Workers (CDWs) Project, participated in the programme through Slum2School Africa, where she delivered a moving spoken word presentation advocating for child rights and the protection of vulnerable children.
Her presentation challenged the exploitation of children and called on society to recognize every child's right to education, safety, dignity, and opportunity.
One of the most memorable moments came when she declared:
"A broom should not replace my books. A bucket should not carry away my dreams... I am a child. My voice matters. My dreams matter. My future matters"
Her performance received enthusiastic applause from participants, many of whom were visibly moved by the confidence and conviction with which she delivered her message.
Beyond the applause, the experience significantly strengthened Blessing's confidence and leadership capacity.
Upon returning home, she excitedly shared her experience:
" Big Mummy, when I got to the stage, I remembered what you told me—to take a deep breath and pray under my breath. I did. Then I started speaking. Everybody brought out their phones. They were recording me and clapping... I did it!"*
Her joyful declaration; "I did it!" captured the essence of what The Deborah International Outreach seeks to achieve: empowering children to discover their voices, build confidence, and believe in their God-given potential.
At The Deborah International Outreach, we believe that children in underserved communities are not lacking in talent; they are often lacking in opportunities.
Through Christ Model School, we provide tuition-free education while intentionally investing in mentorship, leadership development, child protection, advocacy, and character formation. We are committed to ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has access to opportunities that unlock their potential and prepare them to become transformational leaders.
Blessing's participation at this national programme demonstrates the impact of creating safe spaces where children are encouraged to speak, lead, and inspire change.
The Deborah International Outreach appreciates Slum2School Africa for providing a platform that amplifies the voices of vulnerable children through the Child Domestic Workers (CDWs) Project. We also acknowledge The Freedom Fund for supporting initiatives that protect children from exploitation and Cece Yara Child Advocacy Centre for convening a meaningful programme that promoted child participation and advocacy.
We remain committed to collaborating with partners who share our vision of protecting children, promoting quality education, and creating opportunities that transform lives.
Blessing's story is a reminder that one opportunity can change the trajectory of a child's life.
At The Deborah International Outreach, we will continue to raise children who are educated, protected, confident, and equipped to influence their communities positively.
Because every child deserves to be seen.
Every child deserves to be heard.
Every child deserves to thrive.
