Ogun State Revokes Licenses of Non-Compliant Orphanage Owners to Protect Vulnerable Children

The Ogun State Government has taken a bold step to ensure the well-being and safety of vulnerable children by revoking the provisional licenses of private orphanage owners who failed to comply with regulations and laws. The move was announced by Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Adijat Adeleye, during a meeting with private orphanage owners in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Adeleye expressed discontent over the activities of some private orphanage owners, stating that the state will not tolerate shady practices involving adoption, child trafficking, or maltreatment of children. She reiterated the administration’s commitment to safeguarding children’s welfare and preventing exploitation, urging them to adhere to laid-down guidelines.

According to Adeleye, the essence of operating an orphanage is to give back to society through humanitarian services. As such, anyone found wanting in the discharge of their duties will be prosecuted. The commissioner also revealed that the ministry has taken steps to improve its data collection to ensure that the number of children brought to the orphanages is recorded and properly documented.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Adejumoke Adewole, emphasized that the ministry will not relent in embarking on unscheduled monitoring of all orphanage homes in the state to monitor and evaluate the activities of the owners and ensure proper compliance with directives.

In response to the state’s efforts, a representative of the private orphanage owners, Mrs Adeyemo Anthony, commended the state for its efforts towards ensuring orphanage homes were monitored, pledging their support to work together with the government to ensure the welfare and well-being of the vulnerable.

This decision comes as a relief to many who have long been concerned about the welfare of children in orphanages. The Ogun State Government’s commitment to protecting vulnerable children sends a strong message that the state is serious about ensuring the well-being and safety of all its citizens, particularly the most vulnerable members of society.