Illegal child adoption in Ogun State– The Ogun State Government has issued a stern warning to all orphanage and private care homes operating within the state to desist from placing children up for adoption without securing official approval and clearance from the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.
This warning was delivered by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Adijat Adeleye, during a media briefing held in Abeokuta, the state capital, on Tuesday.
She stressed that no orphanage or private care home possesses the legal authority to independently process or finalize the adoption of any child without the involvement of the ministry.
According to Adeleye, such unauthorized practices are considered criminal acts and may attract severe legal consequences. She described any adoption carried out without the ministry’s approval as null and void, equating such actions to child trafficking and kidnapping.
“The Department of Social Welfare is the only legally empowered body under the law to facilitate child adoption in Ogun State,” she stated firmly. “If you have a child eligible for adoption, you must go through the Ministry of Women Affairs. Any other procedure is illegal and will be treated as a criminal offense.”
The commissioner revealed that earlier this year, the state government took decisive action against several private care homes following the discovery of unethical practices. As a result, all previously issued licenses were revoked, including those of some facilities found to be collaborating with unscrupulous elements within the ministry.
“At a point this year, we revoked all licenses of private homes because we uncovered sharp practices involving some staff and orphanage operators,” she noted.
“These homes had to undergo thorough re-evaluation and reapplication before they were considered for license renewal. Over 30 homes have since reapplied after meeting all the necessary conditions.”
In explaining the legal framework surrounding adoption in the state, Adeleye clarified that the adoption process is straightforward and costs less than ₦500,000. She outlined the steps involved:
1. Obtain and complete the official adoption form.
2. Wait to be matched with an adoptable child who fits the applicant’s profile.
3. Proceed with the legal documentation, including a 21-day public notice.
4. Secure a temporary adoption order, followed by a final order after assessment.
“Once all legal requirements are fulfilled, the child is placed under your care. The entire process is transparent, regulated, and legally binding,” Adeleye emphasized.
She also called on the public to remain vigilant and act as responsible citizens by reporting any cases of abuse, illegal adoptions, gender-based violence, or children found wandering on the streets. Reports, she advised, should be made either to the ministry or the nearest police station.
Highlighting the state’s commitment to child welfare, the commissioner added that the government is prepared to support children found without parental care.
“Some children we find are eventually reunited with their families. But for those we cannot reconcile with their relatives, the government is fully ready to take responsibility—send them to school, and provide them with the opportunity for a meaningful future.”