WE’LL GIVE YOU A VOICE, PROTECT YOUR FUTURE — AIYEDATIWA TELLS ONDO CHILDREN

— Governor inaugurates Children’s Parliament, warns against bullying

Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Tuesday vowed that his administration would continue to promote policies that protect children, uphold their rights, and enable them to grow in a society free from fear and discrimination.

Aiyedatiwa gave the assurance at the 2025 National Children’s Day celebration held at the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Arcade, Igbatoro Road, Akure.

Addressing a crowd of schoolchildren, parents, teachers, and dignitaries, the governor described the annual event as a solemn reminder of society’s duty to protect and nurture children.

He said, “It reminds us of the immeasurable value of our young ones and our duty as a state and society to protect, empower and uplift them.”

Speaking on the theme of this year’s celebration, “Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation,” the governor called for collective action against all forms of bullying, especially in schools and online spaces.

“This year’s theme is a patriotic command; it calls on every one of us to take responsibility and stand against the scourge of bullying. It challenges us to create a society that is safe, inclusive and free from any form of intimidation or abuse.

“Bullying, whether in schools, on the playground or in digital spaces, is a threat to the confidence and emotional well-being of our children. It erodes their self-worth and stifles their dreams. But today and every day forward, Ondo State says: No more!” Aiyedatiwa stated.

He called on parents, teachers, religious leaders, traditional rulers, and community stakeholders to build a culture of kindness and empathy around children.

Highlighting the state’s efforts in promoting child welfare, Aiyedatiwa listed the payment of WAEC fees for secondary school students, renovation of public schools, and the recruitment of over 2,000 teachers across the state.

The governor also inaugurated the 3rd Ondo State Children’s Parliament at the event, and commended the courage of the state’s children, urging them to lead with kindness and mutual support.

Aiyedatiwa praised the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development and other stakeholders for their role in organising the celebration.

In her remarks, the governor’s Special Adviser on Women Affairs, Dr. Seun Osamaye, lauded Aiyedatiwa’s dedication to the welfare of women and children, saying this year’s celebration reflected the inclusive nature of his administration.

“The commitment to the growth and development of our children is reflected in the Our Ease Agenda of inclusive governance of Mr. Governor, as new innovations were introduced into the lineup of activities to mark this year’s event as opposed to previous years,” she said.

“This administration has shown time and again that it truly cares about our children. From educational support to child protection programmes, we have seen consistent action that puts the needs of the child at the centre of governance,” she added.

Also speaking, the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye, commended the governor for prioritising education and reducing the state’s debt profile.

A representative of the Ondo State Children’s Parliament, Poroye Olamide, thanked the governor for giving children a platform to express themselves and called for continued efforts to end child abuse and harassment.

The celebration featured cultural displays, oratory and match-past competitions, and a raffle draw tagged ‘Lucky Deep’, with winners going home with prizes presented by the governor.

Dignitaries present included the wife of the governor, Mrs. Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa; Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami; Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff, Prince Segun Omojuwa; traditional rulers, religious leaders, security chiefs and APC leaders.