The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in collaboration with Ondo State Ministry of Information and Orientation on Tuesday 25th November, 2025, commenced a 2-Day Social and Behaviour Change(SBC) capacity building in Akure, the state capital.
The programme which attracted media professionals, members of the Civil Society organisations, community heads, religious bodies and other key stakeholders, is part of steps to ensure deep implementation and acceptance of children-oriented programmes for survival and development by parents.
The programme was aimed at members of the SBC committee on crossed sectoral interventions for child survival and development in the state.
Aderonke Akinola-Akinwole who spoke on behalf of the UNICEF Country Representative, pointed out that the capacity building became necessary to ensure programmes meant for children are embraced by parents for the health of the children.
Aderonke emphasised on adoption of appropriate and relevant measures for the successful implementation of the programmes initiated by UNICEF in collaboration with state governments.
In his message, the Ondo state Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Idowu Ajanaku, described the workshop as another “strategic investment in knowledge, collaboration, and the future of our communities.”
Ajanaku appreciated the commitment, dedication, and passion of the SBC members for driving positive change through evidence-based social and behavioral interventions, which he said are “the very reasons we can look forward to a brighter tomorrow.”
Prof. Bamidele Osho of the Department of Animal Production and Health, Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), said, “Today, we build upon the foundation with renewed vigour and expanded vision.
“As government, we have come to a clear realization: policies and programmes, no matter how well-crafted, cannot by themselves transform societies. True and lasting change must be driven from within-through informed choices, positive attitudes, and community ownership.
“This is why Social and Behavioral Change is at the very core of our development agenda.
“The role of the SBC Committee cannot be overstated. You are the bridge between policy and the people, between strategy and social reality. You translate lofty ideas into practical actions. You ensure that interventions resonate with communities, and that development is not imposed but embraced.
“Your ability to coordinate, communicate, and collaborate across sectors will determine how far we go in achieving our collective development targets.
“This Capacity Building Programme is therefore timely and essential. Over the next two days, you will be exposed to knowledge, tools, and strategies that will strengthen your capacity to design, implement, and monitor effective behavioral change interventions.
“You will learn how to harness data, how to engage communities meaningfully, and how to ensure that every intervention leaves a lasting Impact.
“I acknowledge and appreciate UNICEF for its unwavering commitment to the welfare of children, mothers, and families in Ondo State.
“Through your support, countless lives have been touched, and countless futures have been secured. We are grateful for this partnership, and we look forward to even greater collaboration in the years ahead.”
He, therefore, charged the participants “to engage actively in the discussions, share experiences, ask questions, and contribute ideas.
“Let us leave no stone unturned in our quest to sharpen our skills and broaden our perspectives. By the time we conclude tomorrow, I am confident that we will all depart with renewed energy, a clear path forward, and a stronger resolve to drive change in our communities.”
