The Executive Chairman of Obanliku Local Government Area, Hon. Amb. Chief (Dr.) Sunny Ayang, JP, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to child protection, social welfare, and community development following his participation in the Certification and Graduation Ceremony of Auxiliary Social Workers (ASWs) held in Obanliku.
The ceremony, which took place on Thursday, June 18, 2026, celebrated the successful graduation and certification of 74 Auxiliary Social Workers trained under the Auxiliary Social Workers Programme of the University of Calabar in partnership with UNICEF and other development partners.
The graduates were equipped with the knowledge and skills required to coordinate and support Community-Based Child Protection Structures aimed at preventing and responding to violence against children across communities in Obanliku Local Government Area.
The event attracted key stakeholders from government, academia, and development organizations. Among those present were representatives of the University of Calabar, UNICEF, the Ministry of Justice, the Ministry of Social Welfare and Community Development, as well as officials of the Auxiliary Social Workers Programme.
A major highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of certificates to the graduates by the Executive Chairman. The newly certified Auxiliary Social Workers were applauded for their commitment, discipline, and successful completion of the programme.
Speakers at the event described the initiative as a vital step toward strengthening grassroots child protection systems and improving access to social welfare services in rural communities. They encouraged the graduates to uphold professionalism, integrity, and compassion as they undertake their responsibilities.
Addressing participants, Hon. Sunny Ayang congratulated the graduates and commended the University of Calabar, UNICEF, relevant government ministries, and development partners for their collaborative efforts in advancing child welfare and protection in Obanliku.
He emphasized that the wellbeing and protection of children remain central to his administration’s development agenda and pledged continued support for the Auxiliary Social Workers Programme to ensure its sustainability and effectiveness.
According to the Chairman, the graduation ceremony represents more than an academic achievement, noting that it reflects the empowerment of community-based actors who will play a critical role in safeguarding the rights and welfare of children and other vulnerable persons.
Speaking on behalf of the graduates, Mr. Vincent Atukanre expressed appreciation to the organizers and pledged that the newly certified Auxiliary Social Workers would apply the knowledge and skills acquired during the training to support child protection and community development efforts across the local government area.
The ceremony ended with renewed commitments from stakeholders to strengthen collaboration and build safer, more inclusive, and child-friendly communities throughout Obanliku Local Government Area.
