— 16th Annual International Conference Closes with Renewed Commitment to Human Dignity, Social Justice, and Professional Excellence

Enugu, Nigeria — A new chapter has opened in the evolution of professional social work in Nigeria as the Chartered Institute of Social Work Practitioners of Nigeria (C-ISOWN) successfully concluded its 16th Annual International Conference with the formal induction of new professional members, signaling a strengthened commitment to tackling the nation’s most urgent social challenges.

Held from November 5–7, 2025, at the Federal University of Allied Health Sciences, Enugu (FUAHSE), the three-day conference brought together leading social work professionals, academics, policymakers, and development partners under the powerful theme: “Irregular Migration and Human Trafficking.”

The event served as both a forum for critical dialogue and a celebration of professional growth—combining advocacy, research, and human development initiatives to reinforce the institute’s vision for a more inclusive and socially responsible Nigeria.

Day One: Advocacy on the Streets

The conference opened with a symbolic roadwork awareness campaign through major streets of Enugu, where participants—clad in branded attires and bearing placards—called for united action against irregular migration and human trafficking. The campaign, which attracted massive public attention, demonstrated the institute’s commitment to community-driven awareness and social advocacy.

Day Two: Knowledge Exchange and Strategic Engagements

The second day featured plenary sessions, paper presentations, and policy dialogues that explored the multi-dimensional nature of human trafficking and migration crises in Nigeria.

Experts and stakeholders examined the root causes, policy gaps, and social interventions needed to strengthen prevention and rehabilitation efforts, while fostering collaboration between government agencies, international partners, and professional practitioners.

Speakers, including Prof. Oluwayemisi Obashoro-John, Prof. John Emaimo, and representatives of NAPTIP, Humanitarian Affairs Ministry, and Correctional Services, emphasized that social workers occupy the frontline in combating these human rights violations and restoring dignity to victims.

Day Three: Induction Ceremony — A Celebration of Commitment

The conference climaxed on Friday, November 7th, with a deeply inspiring induction ceremony for new members—an event that symbolized growth, renewal, and the strengthening of professional ethics within the institute.

In his remarks, Dr. Atere Olawale, Head of Training and Membership Department, described the induction as a defining moment for those joining the professional body.

“This induction represents more than just a professional milestone,” he said. “It is a solemn pledge to uphold social justice, protect the vulnerable, and drive meaningful change in our communities.”

The oath-taking ceremony was administered by Barr. Jacqueline Odiadi, while the formal induction was presided over by Dr. Kemi Ottun, the Council Secretary of the Institute.

The highlight of the event came when Prof. Oluwayemisi Obashoro-John, National President of C-ISOWN, personally presented certificates to the newly inducted members—an act that underscored the Institute’s deep sense of mentorship and professional solidarity.

“Today, we are not only inducting professionals,” Prof. Obashoro-John declared, “we are commissioning ambassadors of compassion, integrity, and advocacy. The social work profession thrives on empathy and action—and that is what each new member represents.”

New Members Share Their Joy

Speaking to UGAMATV shortly after the ceremony, some of the newly inducted members—including Lady Gloria Ngozi Eche, Ikechukwu Uchechi Angel, and Comrade Chukwu Christian Nwosu—expressed heartfelt gratitude and excitement.

“This is more than a professional achievement,” said Angel. “It’s a calling to make a difference in our communities, to bring hope to the vulnerable, and to advocate for fairness and dignity wherever we find injustice.”

Their testimonies reflected the emotional and professional significance of the induction, symbolizing a shared resolve to use social work as a tool for national transformation.

Delta State Wins 2026 Hosting Rights

The conference concluded with a bidding session for the 2026 Annual Conference, which generated excitement and friendly competition among state chapters. After careful deliberation, Delta State was announced as the next host, earning resounding applause and anticipation for what promises to be another landmark gathering of social work professionals.

A New Era for Social Work in Nigeria

As the curtains drew on the 16th Annual International Conference, C-ISOWN reaffirmed its leadership as a driving force for policy advocacy, capacity building, and professional ethics in the field of social work.

With over 15,000 members nationwide and growing global partnerships, the institute continues to champion initiatives that strengthen the social fabric, empower practitioners, and defend human rights.

The Enugu conference not only rekindled professional passion but also sent a clear message: the Chartered Institute of Social Work Practitioners of Nigeria is ushering in a new era of accountability, service, and social transformation—one professional at a time.