By Augustina Bajeh
Ondo state government has once again reiterated its commitmentto protecting the rights of children.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Affairs, Dr. Seun Osamaye made the commitment when she led the 3rd Children Parliament of Ondo State House of Assembly on a courtesy visit.
Leading The young parliamentarians, their parents, staff of the ministry and members of a non-governmental organisation, NGO, Save the Children International, on the visit, Dr Osamaye highlighted that the revival of the Children’s Parliament, which had been moribund for 12 years, as one of the key initiatives under the current administration to give Ondo State Children a platform for their voices to be heard.
Dr Osamaye emphasised that the platform also allows children to advocate for their rights and contribute to policies on education, health, and safety.
On his part, Communications Officer for Save the Children International in Ondo and Cross River States, Samuel Eyimofe said efforts are ongoing in cocoa-producing communities in both states to address child labour.
Mr Eyimofe said government must continue to support children’s participation in governance and at the same time invest in the education sector to drive in change.
He also appealed for continued support and recognition of the Children’s Parliament as a vital voice in governance and advocacy.
The speaker, Ondo State House of Assembly, Mr Olamide Oladiji expressed delight at the presence of the children, stressing that the 10th assembly would ensure that maximum support was given to the Children’s Parliament through legislative backing and budgetary support.
Mr Oladiji emphasised the importance of providing children with a voice in governance, noting that such initiatives foster inclusiveness and ensure the protection of child rights.
The children in an interview said the visit gave them first-hand experience on how the legislative arm of government operates.
The 3rd children’s Parliament would be inaugurated on May 29th by governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
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