OGUN: Govt revokes licences of 20 private orphanage homes

This was revealed by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Adijat Adeleye, during a meeting yesterday with private orphanage operators at the ministry’s conference room in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, the state capital.

Commissioner Adeleye expressed concern over the conduct of some orphanage owners, making it clear that the state would not tolerate any involvement in illegal adoption, child trafficking, or the mistreatment of children under their care.

She stressed that orphanages must operate with empathy, focusing on empowering and nurturing vulnerable children, without compromising their safety.

She further highlighted the current administration’s commitment to safeguarding children’s welfare and preventing exploitation, urging orphanages to adhere strictly to established guidelines.

The commissioner explained that the primary purpose of running an orphanage is to give back to society through humanitarian services, and anyone found neglecting their responsibilities would face prosecution.

She also mentioned that the ministry is working to enhance data collection processes, ensuring that the number of children admitted to orphanages is accurately recorded and documented.

“The state government’s actions are aimed at protecting vulnerable children and preserving the integrity of orphanage services,” she said.

“Approximately 20 orphanages with provisional licences have been affected, though not all were involved in serious infractions such as disregarding child adoption procedures, among other violations. However, we have withdrawn their licences and will be conducting allthorough investigations to ensure they are operating correctly.”

“We have instructed the affected orphanages to reapply after a month, and have issued additional guidelines to those with permanent licences to maintain standards.”

Adejumoke Adewole, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, stated that the ministry would continue conducting unscheduled visits to all orphanages in the state to monitor and ensure compliance with directives.

Adeyemo Anthony, a representative of the private orphanage owners, commended the state government for its efforts to monitor orphanage homes and pledged their cooperation in ensuring the welfare and well-being of the children under their care.