We have access to critical information as a government ministry tasked with safeguarding these children. Once violations are detected, we take immediate action to hold offenders accountable.
The Lagos State government on Tuesday, announced the closure of several orphanages due to involvement in illegal activities such as baby trafficking and unauthorized adoption practices.
This disclosure was made during the annual ministerial press briefing by Mr. Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende, the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, as part of the state’s reflection on Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s six years in office.
Mr. Ogunlende revealed that God’s Time Orphanage, located in Igando, was shut down for violating child rights laws, improper registration, and poor management.
Additionally, investigations into the Lifetime Changer Orphanage in FESTAC uncovered illegal baby trafficking activities. Several other orphanages were found to be bypassing official procedures in placing children for adoption.
He emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to monitor and regulate orphanages through dedicated officers who actively gather intelligence and ensure compliance with child protection laws.
“We have access to critical information as a government ministry tasked with safeguarding these children. Once violations are detected, we take immediate action to hold offenders accountable, which sometimes leads to shutting down such facilities,” Ogunlende stated.
He also urged orphanage operators to adhere strictly to established guidelines and encouraged them to seek official approval and guidance from the ministry before setting up their homes.
Highlighting positive developments, the commissioner noted that the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development has approved the establishment of additional orphanages in the past year.
A total of 68 orphanages have been fully registered, while another 45 received provisional approvals after rigorous screening to ensure they meet basic operational and welfare standards. These efforts are aimed at complementing government-run orphanages in providing care for vulnerable children.
Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration remains dedicated to creating a nurturing and supportive environment for children to grow, receive proper care, and thrive.
Ogunlende reaffirmed that the Ministry holds exclusive authority over the placement of children in registered orphanages and warned against any attempts to circumvent these official channels.
In addition to child welfare initiatives, Ogunlende reported that over the past year, the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) has directly empowered 1,000 Persons With Disabilities (PWDs).
This empowerment came through financial assistance, skills acquisition programs, provision of vocational tools, and improved access to healthcare services.