Lagos remains committed to prioritising children’s welfare — Commissioner

The Lagos State Government has made a renewed pledge to continue to prioritise the overall welfare of children.

The Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, M. Mobolaji Ogunlende, stated this during his keynote address at the 2024 International Children’s Day celebration with the theme, ‘Investing in Our Future Means Investing in Our Children’, at the Eko FM Multipurpose Hall, Lateef Jakande Way, Ikeja on Monday.

He said, “Our present administration, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, is dedicated to giving our children the best opportunities across all facets of life.

“Recognizing them not only as tomorrow’s leaders but as leaders in the making today, we aim to foster an environment conducive to their growth.”

While saying that investing in children means investing in the Lagos of everybody’s dreams, the Commissioner stated that the children must be well nurtured to contribute meaningfully to society, adding that the state government remained committed to providing children with unfettered access to quality education.

The Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Mrs Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu,, emphasized that “children are not just cherished by their parents but hold immense value to the government.

She said, “Today’s celebration aims to instil in them a sense of dignity and pride, encouraging self-discovery and self-reliance. Our children are our most precious assets, and today’s theme prompts us to redouble our efforts in investing in their future.”

Oke-Osanyintolu urged the young audience to be exemplary ambassadors of Lagos State, assuring them of continued governmental support to pave the way for a brighter tomorrow.

In a goodwill message, Mrs. Esther Brodrick-Shen, Deputy Chief of Party at the Association for Reproductive and Family Health (ARFH), lauded the Lagos State Government for fostering an environment conducive to children’s growth. She pledged ongoing collaboration with the State to implement policies and programmes in the children’s best interests.

Mrs. Gbemisola Agbatan, Founder of Solid Teens and Youth Initiative, sensitized children about the potential dangers of online technology, while Mr. Oluwole Amosu, the second speaker, underscored the pivotal roles of both government and parents in shaping a promising future for children.

The event, marked by diverse cultural presentations and a spirited debate competition, drew participants from schools across six education districts, as well as government-run orphanages and correctional centres from across the state