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Ondo State Government Hosts Save the Children Country Director to Boost Support for Children’s Parliament

Focus on Children’s Parliament, Anti-Child Labour, and Social Protection Initiatives

The Ondo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting child rights and welfare through deeper collaboration with international partners. This was evident on Wednesday as the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development hosted the Country Director of Save the Children International, Mr. Durean Harvey, during a courtesy visit in Akure.

The visit aimed to reinforce ongoing initiatives around child protection, with particular attention to the Ondo State Children’s Parliament and the fight against child labour.

In her welcome remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Affairs, Dr. Seun Osamaye, commended Save the Children International for its continued advocacy and intervention in vulnerable communities. She lauded Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for prioritizing policies that promote the welfare of children, including free skill acquisition programs for mothers to strengthen family care.

“Our government is intentional about ensuring every child in Ondo State has access to quality education, healthcare, and social protection,” Dr. Osamaye stated. “We also believe that empowering mothers economically is key to improving the lives of children.”

Speaking earlier, Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Bishop Oluseyi Odusola, reiterated the ministry’s readiness to partner with reputable organizations working in the interest of children’s development and safety.

Director of the Child Department, Mr. Mefun Tophas, detailed the department’s mandate, which includes safeguarding children’s rights and promoting their well-being. He emphasized the ministry’s focus on preventing abuse, neglect, and exploitation of minors.

In his remarks, Mr. Durean Harvey highlighted Save the Children’s track record in Nigeria since 2001, with presence in several states including Adamawa, Lagos, Cross River, and Taraba. He noted that the organization has been active in Ondo East and West local governments, working to eliminate child labour in cocoa farming.

“We are pleased with the progress made so far and are looking to expand our reach in the second phase of the program,” Harvey said. “Children’s voices must be heard, and their rights protected.”

Also present at the event was Barr. Afolabi Bolanle, Executive Secretary of the Ondo State Agency Against Gender-Based Violence (OSAA-GBV), who acknowledged the administration’s continued investment in child protection frameworks.

The visit marks a significant milestone in the state’s collaborative approach to advancing child-focused development, and stakeholders expressed optimism for stronger outcomes in the months ahead.


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