The Delta State Child Rights Implementation Committee, chaired by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, and Social Development, Mrs. Oghenekevwe Agas, has urged orphanages across the state to adopt best practices and streamline adoption processes to safeguard the welfare of children in their care.
This call was made during a recent committee meeting that brought together Heads of Personnel Management from local government areas, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), and other stakeholders committed to enforcing the Child Rights Law in Delta State.
In her address, Mrs. Agas expressed concerns over irregularities observed in some of the state’s 62 registered orphanages under the ministry’s supervision.
“Children in these facilities must receive proper care and attention. However, we’ve noticed cases where some children have living relatives or are withheld by orphanages from being adopted,” she said.
She also highlighted the ministry’s ongoing efforts to regulate the admission process for children in orphanages to prevent exploitation and ensure the facilities cater to children who genuinely need care.
“This regulation will minimise cases of children with living relatives being admitted, ensuring resources are allocated to the truly vulnerable,” Mrs. Agas explained.
The Permanent Secretary further outlined challenges faced by law enforcement agencies, including insufficient funding, manpower, and logistics, but reassured attendees of the ministry’s commitment to overcoming these hurdles through collaboration.
A representative from the Delta State Correctional Centre, Idongeit Lucky, also raised concerns about the plight of infants living with incarcerated mothers, calling for additional support for these vulnerable children.
Meanwhile, Mr. Patrick Ochei, representing the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) Delta State Council, highlighted persistent challenges in addressing child abuse.
“Many cases are withdrawn due to fear of stigmatisation or threats from suspects, while cultural pressures often lead families to settle informally, undermining legal processes,” he said.
Mr. Ochei also criticised bureaucratic delays and financial demands that hinder access to justice for child abuse victims. He emphasised the need for public awareness campaigns and commended the NUJ’s role in amplifying the committee’s efforts through consistent media coverage.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to enforcing the Child Rights Law and fostering partnerships to create a safer environment for children in Delta State.
