Welfare Services and the Development of Children Under Five Years in Ibeno Local Government Area

Abstract

This study investigated the relationship between welfare services and the development of children under five years in Ibeno Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The study focused on three key welfare services: healthcare, early childhood education, and social protection services. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered to parents, caregivers, and welfare service providers within the Local Government Area. The sample consisted of 322 respondents selected through a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were analysed using simple linear regression. The findings revealed that there is a significant relationship between healthcare services and the development of children under five in Ibeno Local Government Area; there is no significant relationship between early childhood education and the development of children under five in Ibeno Local Government Area.The study concluded that comprehensive and accessible welfare services play a critical role in the holistic development of children under five years. Recommendations were made for government and stakeholders to strengthen and expand welfare service delivery to improve early childhood outcomes in the area