Children’s Day: Ondo Will Continue to Champion Child Rights – Gov. Aiyedatiwa |LAGOS EYE NEWS

Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to policies and actions that safeguard children’s rights and empower them to flourish in a society devoid of fear, intimidation, and discrimination.

Speaking on Tuesday at the 2025 National Children’s Day celebration held at the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Arcade, Igbatoro Road, Akure, Governor Aiyedatiwa addressed a large gathering of school children, teachers, parents, and dignitaries. He described the event not only as a time of celebration but also as a moment of reflection and shared responsibility.

“This day reminds us of the immeasurable value of our young ones and our duty as a state and society to protect, empower, and uplift them,” the Governor stated.

Addressing the theme of this year’s celebration, “Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation”, Aiyedatiwa said it is a call to action that urges collective resistance against bullying and abuse, particularly within schools and online platforms.

“Bullying, whether in schools, on playgrounds, 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!” he declared.

The Governor emphasized the need for collaboration among parents, teachers, religious and traditional leaders, and community stakeholders to foster a culture of empathy, kindness, and support for children.

Highlighting his administration’s achievements, he mentioned the payment of WAEC fees for secondary school students, the renovation of public schools, and the recruitment of over 2,000 teachers to enhance learning outcomes in public institutions.

Governor Aiyedatiwa also inaugurated the 3rd Ondo State Children’s Parliament, celebrating the courage and resilience of children in the state, while urging them to be leaders in promoting kindness and mutual respect.

He commended the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development and other stakeholders for their unwavering efforts in ensuring the protection and welfare of children and the success of the event.

Earlier in her welcome address, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Affairs, Dr. Seun Osamaye, lauded Governor Aiyedatiwa for his dedication to the welfare of women and children. She noted that the Children’s Day celebration reflected the administration’s commitment to inclusiveness, gender equality, and sustainable youth development.

“Our administration has continually demonstrated care for children through educational support and child protection initiatives,” she said.

Also present at the event, the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye, praised the governor for prioritizing education and reducing the state’s debt burden, aligning with the OUR EASE Agenda.

A representative of the Ondo State Children’s Parliament, Poroye Olamide, thanked the governor for amplifying the voices of children and called for continued efforts to eliminate abuse and harassment.

The celebration featured a variety of entertaining and educational activities, including an oratory competition, march-past, cultural displays, and the KidsCon Raffle Draw. Winners across categories received Lucky Star Prizes, presented by the Governor.

Among the dignitaries at the event were 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; heads of security agencies; and APC chieftains.