Evaluating the Effectiveness of the Child Protection Network in Child Abuse Reporting and Intervention in Ibadan Metropolis, Oyo State, Nigeria

Abstract

The Child Protection Network (CPN) in Oyo State is an important mechanism for reporting, rescuing, and
referral of cases of child abuse. Its efficacy is however hampered by systemic and contextual constraints. This
study investigates the critical gap between awareness of abuse and actual reporting behavior among key
stakeholders. The study adopted a mixed-methods approach, in which 282 participants were surveyed,
including CPN members, child protection officers, and security operatives, which was complemented by 19
purposive key informant interviews. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square tests,
regression analysis, and thematic analysis. The results indicate that the CPN significantly facilitates reporting
(mean = 4.26, p < .001), with collaborative engagement with security agencies serving as a primary driver of
successful interventions ($\beta = .397, p < .001$). Despite high confidence in reporting mechanisms (78%),
a notable "responsiveness gap" exists, as only 57% of respondents expressed confidence in the actual
responsiveness of Children’s Services. While qualitative data highlighted socio-cultural influences, ANOVA
revealed no statistically significant difference in reporting attitudes across cultural belief categories ($p =
.567$), suggesting that institutional factors may play a more decisive role than cultural ones. Grounded in
Ecological Systems Theory, the study demonstrates that awareness alone is insufficient to ensure reporting due
to institutional bottlenecks and behavioral patterns. The study recommends strengthening institutional
frameworks, improving transparency and accountability in service delivery, and intensifying public awareness
to bridge the trust gap between reporting mechanisms and intervention outcomes.