We’ll continue to prioritise children’s welfare through various initiatives —Gov Aiyedatiwa
Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa has promised that his administration shall continue to prioritise the welfare of children through our various initiatives including payment of WAEC fees for secondary school students and the renovation of public schools across the State.
The Governor made this pledge on Tuesday at the 2025 National Children’s day celebration, held at Gani Fawehinmi freedom arcade.
He congratulated the children on the occasion of the children’s day celebration, urging them to be champions of kindness, to support one another and to never be silent in the face of bullying. “Speak up for yourself. Speak up for others. You are not alone and your voice matters”.
Governor Aiyedatiwa noted that this year’s theme “Stand Up, Speak Up – Building a Bullying-Free Generation,” is a call to action, which focuses on empowering the children to be bold, resilient and confident. It speaks directly to the heart of what every child deserves: a safe environment where they can grow, learn, express themselves freely and reach their full potential without fear, intimidation or prejudice. He added that It is a challenges to create a society that is safe, inclusive and free from any form of intimidation or abuse.
“Children’s Day is not only a time of celebration but also a moment for reflection, advocacy and action. It serves as a reminder of our duty to promote the rights, care and education of every child and to raise awareness about their protection and welfare. It is a call to nurture and support the development of our children, recognising them as the future of our country.
“Equally, this celebration fosters positive relationships by encouraging parents, caregivers, and communities to build strong, positive relations with children”.
He acknowledged bullying is a form of aggressive behaviour where someone intentionally harms, intimidates or humiliates another person repeatedly, which can be physical, verbal or social and it leaves lasting harm.
He stressed that children who are bullied may suffer emotionally, physically and academically and can lead to anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, sleep disturbances and even social isolation.
He stressed that Ondo State children deserve better, they need protection from all forms of harassment, exploitation and abuse.
“To build a bullying-free generation, we must act collectively and decisively. We must build a society free from oppression, injustice and inhumane treatment. We must build a generation of young people who are bold, resilient and confident”.
The Governor stated that all hands must therefore be on deck, as parents, teachers, school administrators, religious bodies, traditional institutions, associations and government at all levels must play their part, and children must be encouraged to speak up and support one another.
“We must instill empathy and kindness in our children. When we put ourselves in others’ shoes, we can build stronger relationships and more caring communities. Education is key to preventing bullying.
“We must raise awareness about its harmful effects and promote positive behaviour in all learning environments. We must also build robust support systems for victims: counseling, mentoring and safe spaces must be readily available. Moreover, we must empower bystanders to become upstanders – those who do not remain silent but act when they see something wrong.”
Governor Aiyedatiwa reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to child protection policies, school safety initiatives and programmes that promote mental and emotional health in schools and communities.
He commended the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development and all critical stakeholders for the success of this year’s celebration and for their commitment to protecting the children of Ondo State. “Your interventions are saving lives and securing futures. I encourage you to remain proactive and relentless in this noble mission”.
Earlier in her address, the Special Adviser to Governor Aiyedatiwa on Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr (Mrs) Seun Osamaye noted that the National Children’s Day is a significant National event that affords the opportunity of celebrating children by networking and also advocating for social welfare and rights in the society.
Osamaye added that It is a day set aside to recognize, honour, celebrate and appreciate the children and also to promote international awareness, Unity, love among children worldwide and to improve their welfare.
She said that this year’s theme is apt and timely as it addresses critical issues in schools settings and calls on everyone to take action against bullying among children and young adults, empowering the children to speak up through advocacy and confidence building.
She appreciated Governor Aiyedatiwa for his visionary leadership and excellent disposition towards child development, stressing that his dedication and unwavering commitment to the welfare of Ondo State Children is commendable.
The First Lady of Ondo State, Mrs Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa urged parents to make their children their friends, monitor them as they are the future leaders of the country. She added that they must not be neglected in any area of their lives.
Reacting on behalf of the Children parliament, Miss Olamide Poroye appreciated Governor Aiyedatiwa for reviving the children parliament which has been mouribond for 12 years.
While soliciting for more support for the children parliament, she noted that the children would continue to trust him as their father. she also appreciated Mrs Osamaye for her leadership skills. Pledging that they would grow up to be patriotic and be responsible citizens of the State.
The event featured inauguration of 3rd Children parliament by Governor Aiyedatiwa, cultural parade display competition, oratory skills competition, match past competition, spoken words, Kidscon raffle draw.
In attendance were; Ondo State first lady, Mrs Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa, Deputy Governor, Dr Olayide Adelami, Secretary to the State Government, Dr Taiwo Fasoranti, other members of the State Executive Council, traditional rulers, religious leaders, Heads of security Chiefs, APC chieftains, Akure South Local Government Chairman, Hon. Gbenga Fasua, Director General, OSRC Media group, Mr Kenneth Odusola – Stevenson, students across the State.
