Building strong families. Strengthening society.
Toivo, meaning hope in Finnish, was founded on the conviction that society is only as strong as its families. When families are underprepared and unsupported, the consequences reach far beyond the household.
Our Mission
To strengthen families and communities through research, evidence-informed programmes, policy engagement and practical resources that improve decision-making and promote long-term social wellbeing.
Our Vision
A society where families are supported by effective policies, strong institutions and thriving communities.
Toivo operates at the intersection of family development, public health and policy reform. We are a research and policy organisation, not a crisis intervention service. Our work proceeds at the level of evidence and policy first, with programme delivery, beginning with ANC Plus, developed carefully on that foundation.
Nigeria’s family development challenges are not isolated. They are shaped by policy gaps, institutional capacity, and the absence of structured preparation for parenthood. Toivo exists to build the evidence base and the policy case for change, and to design the practical programmes that can, in time, be delivered through Nigeria’s existing systems.
Our Core Values
Integrity
We represent our work, our evidence and our stage of development honestly, to funders, partners and the public alike.
Excellence
Our research and publications are held to a rigorous editorial and evidentiary standard.
Evidence
Every claim Toivo makes is grounded in primary sources, verified before publication and attributed to the source that produced it.
Collaboration
Sustainable change in family policy requires alignment between government, communities, researchers and institutions.
Inclusion
Toivo’s research and programme design account for the realities of first-time parents, adolescent parents, and families in underserved communities.
Innovation
We look for approaches that work through Nigeria’s existing systems rather than building parallel ones, adapting global evidence to the Nigerian context.
Accountability
As Toivo’s programmes move from design into implementation, we are committed to transparent evaluation and inviting external review of our methodology and outcomes.