Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to strengthening child protection frameworks, promoting inclusive education and improving the welfare of children across the state.

The governor made the declaration during the 2026 National Children’s Day celebration held at Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Square with the theme, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child.”

Represented by his deputy, Olayide Adelami, Governor Aiyedatiwa said his administration would continue to protect children from abuse, exploitation, trafficking, violence and neglect through effective implementation of the Child Rights Law 2007 and other child protection policies.

He stressed the need for a safe, supportive and inclusive environment where every child, regardless of gender, religion, social status or physical condition, could thrive and achieve their full potential.

According to the governor, children remain critical stakeholders in nation-building, noting that the state government has sustained free tuition in public primary and secondary schools to reduce the number of out-of-school children.

He further disclosed that over 2,000 teachers had been recruited into public schools to improve learning outcomes, while classrooms were being renovated and equipped with instructional materials and furniture.

Governor Aiyedatiwa also stated that the government was paying WAEC and NABTEB fees for eligible students in public secondary schools and technical colleges to ease the financial burden on parents.

Speaking at the event, the Ondo State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Babatunde Kolawole, described children as the future of the state and called for stronger commitment towards their welfare, protection and development.
He also commended the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development for her efforts in advancing the welfare of women and children across the state.

In her welcome address, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Oluwaseun Osamaye, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to ensuring equal opportunities for every child irrespective of gender, religion, ethnicity, disability or socio-economic background.

She noted that the government had intensified efforts against child labour, trafficking, bullying and other forms of abuse affecting children in the state.

Also speaking, the wife of the governor, Oluwaseun Esther Aiyedatiwa, called for prayers and support for children and families affected by insecurity across the country, stressing that every child deserved love, protection, quality education and equal opportunities.

The colourful celebration featured cultural displays, marching parades, games, talent exhibitions by children with special needs and presentations by the Ondo State Children’s Parliament, which also appealed for greater support towards child protection initiatives in the state.