The Ogun State Ministry of Information and Strategy, in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has held its quarterly Social Behavioural Change Committee meeting with a focus to enhance interventions for children and adolescents.
Formally regarded as (S-SOMTEC), the SBC Committee will focus on fostering integrated and evidence-based social and behavioural change interventions that address key child rights issues.
The multi-sectoral committee is tasked with planning, harmonising, implementing, reporting, and documenting data-driven social and behavioural change initiatives aimed at promoting and protecting child rights.
Its primary objective is to drive positive behavioural change at individual and community levels by addressing barriers that hinder children’s well-being across various thematic areas.
Membership comprises representatives from civil society organisations, religious and traditional institutions, community structures, and government agencies, all focused on raising awareness about child and adolescent-related services statewide.
Speaking at the quarterly committee meeting which was attended by UNICEF representatives from Lagos Field Office, SBC Specialist, Mrs. Aderonke Akinola-Akinwole and held at the ministry’s headquarters in Abeokuta the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Information and Strategy, Alhaji Waheed Adesina emphasised that the committee will lead advocacy against child abuse and anti-children policies.
He said the gathering, which reaffirms the collective resolve to champion the welfare of every child and mother in the society, underscores the shared commitment to progress as well as the power of collaboration in driving transformative change.
He said the partnership between the Ministry of Information and Strategy and UNICEF stands as a demonstration of what can be achieved when vision aligns with action saying that the collaboration has enabled the ministry to forge ahead in addressing critical challenges faced by mothers and children across all socio-economic strata.
“As partners, we have demonstrated that no child need be left behind when institutions unite under a common purpose.
“This platform, formerly known as the State Social Mobilisation and Technical Committee (S-SOMTEC) Meeting, has long served as a pillar of dialogue on child survival, development, and protection. It has ensured that government policies and interventions transcend lip service to reach the grassroots, touch the lives of our children and safeguarding their futures.
“Yet, as we evolve in our understanding of societal dynamics, we recognise the need to sharpen our focus.
Alhaji Waheed Adesina said the meeting ‘marks a strategic realignment: the transition to the Social and Behavioural Change (SBC) Committee Meeting.
“This is nothing but a reflection of our commitment to being more intentional, evidence-based, and result-driven. Behavioural change lies at the heart of sustainable progress. Whether in health, nutrition, WASH, FGM prevention, social policy or any other thematic area of UNICEF, lasting impact demands more than awareness. There is also the nagging requirement for us to reshape mindsets, practices, and norms.
He emphasized that, “Social and Behavioural Change (SBC) is a systematic, evidence-driven approach to understanding and influencing the social norms, attitudes, and practices that shape individual and community behaviours. Unlike traditional awareness campaigns, SBC takes a leap beyond disseminating information—it addresses the underlying cultural, economic, and psychological barriers that hinder the adoption of positive practices. I am optimistic that, as stakeholders from different backgrounds, we can leverage this platform to catalyse shifts in mindsets and ensure sustainable progress for generations to come.
Earlier in her welcome address, the programme Director, Ogun State Ministry of Information and Strategy, Alhaja Kemi Ewedairo-Yusuf thanked UNICEF and all committee members; and critical stakeholders for their dedication and commitment.
She said the gathering is to strengthen the collective efforts in addressing the pressing issues affecting mothers and children in different communities.
“Over the years, this platform has proven instrumental in driving impactful policies and interventions. Today, as we refine our focus on Social and Behavioural Change (SBC), we reaffirm our resolve to not only raise awareness but to inspire lasting, transformative actions at the grassroots level.
She thanked UNICEF for the steadfast collaboration and their technical expertise and resources which have assisted in shaping the strategies and ensuring that no child or mother is left behind.
