OGUN STATE REVOKES LICENSES OF 20 ORPHANAGES. (PHOTO).

Ogun State Revokes Licenses of 20 Orphanages

The Ogun State Government has revoked the provisional licenses of 20 private orphanage owners for failing to comply with regulations designed to prioritize the well-being and safety of vulnerable children. This decision was announced by the State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Adijat Adeleye, during a meeting with orphanage owners at the ministry’s Conference Room in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta. Adeleye expressed dissatisfaction with the activities of some orphanage owners, emphasizing that the government would not tolerate illegal adoption, child trafficking, or any form of maltreatment of children in their care.

Commissioner Adeleye stressed the importance of orphanages operating with empathy, focusing on empowering and caring for vulnerable children without compromising their safety. She reiterated the government's commitment to safeguarding children's welfare and preventing their exploitation, warning that any orphanage found guilty of violating these principles would face prosecution. Adeleye also highlighted efforts to improve data collection to ensure accurate records of children brought to the orphanages and urged orphanage operators to strictly adhere to established guidelines.

Additionally, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Adejumoke Adewole, stated that the ministry would continue unscheduled monitoring of all orphanages in the state to ensure compliance with regulations. Meanwhile, Adeyemo Anthony, a representative of the private orphanage owners, expressed support for the government’s efforts to monitor orphanages and pledged to work closely with the authorities to ensure the welfare of the children. The affected orphanages have been asked to reapply for their licenses after a month, with additional guidelines issued to those with permanent licenses to maintain high standards.