…strengthens ties with Save the Children International

By Josephine Oguntoyinbo

The Ondo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to child protection and welfare as it hosted the Country Director of Save the Children International, Mr Durean Harvey, in a bid to strengthen collaboration and support for children.

The visit, held at the State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, saw the Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Affairs, Dr Seun Osamaye, commend Save the Children International for its consistent efforts in championing children’s rights.

She lauded the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa for prioritising children’s access to quality education, healthcare, social protection, and welfare.

Dr Osamaye further highlighted the Governor’s support for mothers through free skill acquisition programmes designed to enhance their economic capacity, thereby improving care for their children.

Welcoming the delegation earlier, the Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Bishop Oluseyi Odusola, reiterated the Ministry’s readiness to collaborate with organisations dedicated to the advancement of children’s well-being.

In his remarks, the Director of the Child Department, Mr Mefun Tophas, outlined the department’s core responsibilities, which include ensuring child safety, protection, and the promotion of children’s rights.

Mr Durean Harvey, speaking on behalf of Save the Children International, noted that the organisation has operated in Nigeria since 2001 and currently runs programmes in states including Adamawa, Yobe, Lagos, Cross River, and Taraba.

He stated that the organisation focuses on child protection, tackling issues such as trafficking, child labour, and violence against children, while promoting children’s access to education and active participation through initiatives like the Children’s Parliament.

Mr Harvey added that Save the Children International has been active in Ondo East and West, addressing the involvement of children in cocoa-related labour. He expressed optimism about expanding their intervention in the next phase of the programme.

He commended the state government’s role in child protection.

Also present at the event was the Executive Secretary of the Ondo State Agency Against Gender-Based Violence (OSAA-GBV), Barrister Afolabi Bolanle, who praised the government’s unwavering support for child-centred initiatives.

The visit marks a significant step towards forging stronger partnerships and scaling up interventions aimed at securing a better future for children in Ondo State.