The Edo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting children, empowering communities, and building systems that leave no child behind.
Speaking at the SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria’s Community Annual Town Hall Meeting in Benin City, Education Commissioner Hon. Dr. Paddy Emmanuel Iyamu emphasized that the safety, education, and well-being of children are collective obligations, not optional responsibilities .
He urged participants to have practical, inclusive, and forward-looking discussions, prioritizing the best interest of the child.
The Commissioner who was represented by the Director, School Support Services Mr. Ikoghode Abudukadiri said “As we deliberate here today , let our conversations be practical, inclusive, and forward-looking, with the best interest of the child guiding every decision”.
“Let us leave this hall today not just with reports and resolutions, but with a renewed determination to stand as one voice and one force for the protection, education, and future of every child in Edo State, because when we protect a child, we secure the future of our society”.
Dr. Iyamu said history remember that when our children needed us most, these communities stood up, spoke with one voice, and chose action over silence, because protecting a child today is the surest way to secure Edo State’s tomorrow.
He commended the organizer of the event and acknowledged the invaluable support of the European Union through the Strengthening Childcare and Protection Systems in Nigeria project.
On his part the Federal Commissioner, Public Complaints Commission, Edo State, Hon. Austine Aigbavboa said there was need to protect the children and do everything possible to better their lives and safety.
He added that he observed that children are treated badly. He said his wish is that children should be properly catered for.
Aigbavboa disclosed that in the Federal Complaints Commission they handle matters relating to children, especially when they are not treated well. “Our services are free. We hate oppression. It is our duty to protect the children”.
He also said that the commission is ready to partner with NGOs in order to join hands to eradicate the abuses of children.
Earlier in his remarks, the organizer of the programme, SOS Children Villages Nigeria, said their project is being organized by in partnership with the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Center (CISLAC), Jireh Doo Foundation (JDF) and SOS Norway in three states, which include Borno, Edo, and Plateau states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
This year’s theme is “The EU Strengthening Child Care And Protection System In Nigeria (SCPSN) Project”
Some of the things the organizer wish to achieve are to strengthen the implementation of the Child Rights Law and the promotion of Quality Alternative Care Guide for Vulnerable children in Borno, Edo and Plateau and at the national level.
Also to reduce incidences of abuse, infringement on rights and exploitation of children through the strengthening of state child protection structures and community safety nets for vulnerable children in Borno, Edo and Plateau states.
Other stakeholders at the event equally advocated for a strong security architecture to protect children in public schools and within the society.
