Ondo Moves Against Child Labour, Seeks Freedom For Abducted Pupils

Ondo State government has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling child labour and other harmful practices affecting children.

It called for the safe release of students, teachers and parents held captive in parts of the country.

The renewed commitment was made during the 2026 National Children’s Day celebration held in the state, where government officials, teachers, parents and pupils gathered to advocate for child protection and inclusion.

The event featured matches from past competitions, involving about 50 schools, as well as cultural displays and talent exhibitions by children with special needs.

Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, represented by Deputy Governor Olayide Adelami, said the administration remained committed to policies and programmes that promote children’s welfare, education and protection from child labour.

He described the celebration as more than a ceremonial gathering, noting that it was “a day of reflection, renewed commitment and collective responsibility toward the welfare, protection, education and development of every child in Ondo State and Nigeria at large.”

‎The governor said the state had sustained free education policies in public primary and secondary schools to ensure that no child was denied access to education because of financial constraints.

According to him, the government had consistently paid WAEC and NABTEB fees for secondary school students as part of its EASE agenda.

‎Aiyedatiwa also disclosed that over 2,000 teachers had been recruited into public schools across the state to improve learning outcomes and address workforce shortages.

‎He added that the administration had continued to revitalise educational infrastructure through classroom renovations, the provision of instructional materials, and the supply of furniture and learning equipment.

‎Also speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Seun Osamaye, said the government was intensifying efforts to reduce child labour, abuse, trafficking and the number of out-of-school children in the state.

‎She said the theme of the celebration, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” showed the need to give every child equal opportunities regardless of gender, religion, ethnicity or social background.

‎”We are working hard to ensure that our children are protected from child labour and other harmful practices. Most communities face challenges such as child abuse, trafficking, bullying, child labour, out-of-school children, violence and neglect. Still, in Ondo State, we are doing everything possible to reduce these challenges,” she said.

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