Metro

Ogun govt revokes licences of 20 private orphanages

The Ogun State Government has revoked the provisional licences of 20 private orphanage operators in the state due to their failure to comply with regulations and laws designed to protect the well-being and safety of vulnerable children in their care.

This announcement was made by the state Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Adijat Adeleye, on Friday during a meeting with members of private orphanage homes at the ministry’s conference room in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

The commissioner expressed strong disapproval of the activities of certain private orphanage owners, emphasising that the state would not tolerate any shady practices, including illegal adoption, child trafficking, or the maltreatment of children under their care.

She stressed that orphanages should operate with empathy, focusing on empowering and caring for vulnerable children without compromising their safety.

Adeleye reiterated the administration’s commitment to safeguarding children’s welfare and preventing their exploitation.

She urged all orphanages to adhere to the established guidelines, noting that the purpose of operating an orphanage is to give back to society through humanitarian services.

She warned that anyone found lacking in their duties would face prosecution.

The commissioner further explained that the ministry has taken steps to improve data collation, ensuring that the number of children brought to orphanages is accurately recorded and documented.

“The state government’s actions aim to protect vulnerable children and maintain the integrity of orphanage services,” Adeleye stated.

“About 20 orphanages with provisional licences were affected, but not all of them were involved in various sharp practices like not following due guidelines on child adoption, among other contraventions.

“We have withdrawn the provisional licences of these 20 orphanages. We want to take our time to dig deeper and ensure that they are all doing the right things.”

She also mentioned that the affected orphanages have been advised to reapply after a month, and additional guidelines have been given to those with permanent licences to ensure that standards are not compromised.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Adejumoke Adewole, added that the ministry would continue to conduct unscheduled visits to all orphanage homes in the state to monitor and evaluate the activities of the operators and ensure proper compliance with directives.

Representing the private orphanage owners, Adeyemo Anthony commended the state government for its efforts in monitoring the operations of orphanage homes and pledged their support to work together with the government to ensure the welfare and well-being of the children in their care.

ALSO READ THESE TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE