Hon. Christabel Omoh Ekwu, the Edo State Commissioner for Social Development and Gender Issues, has reiterated the state government’s commitment to providing a safe haven for vulnerable and orphaned children.
This pledge was underscored during an Orphanage Home Audit Profile exercise carried out by the ministry at the Tender Heart and Charity Home International in Benin City.
Hon. Christabel stressed that the administration of Governor Godwin Obaseki is deeply invested in the welfare of every child in Edo State. By conducting audits of orphanage homes, the government can address the unique needs of these orphans and vulnerable children across the state.
The commissioner also urged orphanage home owners to be alert and aware of the interactions between males and females within their establishments. She emphasized the need to prevent any potential sexual harassment among the children and advocated for the establishment of separate rooms for boys and girls. Her message underscored that orphanages should function as shelters for the homeless rather than as baby factories. The government’s goal is to nurture and unlock the potential of every homeless child, irrespective of their circumstances.
Additionally, the commissioner underscored the importance of maintaining proper hygiene conditions within orphanage homes. A sanitary environment is vital for the health and well-being of the children. She revealed the government’s plan to digitize operations and set up smart homes, where precise data tracking of each child will be facilitated. Home owners were urged to actively engage in this initiative.
In a related development, Mrs. Barbara Osobajo, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues, led a delegation to Kinglucy and Eghosa Orphanage Homes. She called on the proprietors to exhibit good behavior and comply with the rules governing orphanage home operations in Edo State. Failure to adhere to these regulations will attract suitable legal penalties.
Expressing her appreciation to the government for incorporating orphans and vulnerable children in its developmental plans, Deaconess Margaret Osawaru Hassan, the proprietress of Tender Heart Orphanage Home, pledged to work with the ministry to achieve the MEGA agenda of Social Sustainability.
