From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Kwara State Government, has rescued 30 children from the Iranlowo Oluwa Orphanage and Children’s Home, an unapproved facility in Ilorin, following concerns over their welfare and living conditions.
The children, comprising boys and girls aged between two and 15, were rescued on Thursday by officials of the state Ministry of Social Development and subsequently moved to a government-approved shelter for proper care, protection and documentation.
The intervention followed the discovery of irregularities at the facility, prompting the ministry to take steps to safeguard the rights and wellbeing of the children.
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Commissioner for Social Development, Hajiya Mariam Imam, said the government’s priority was to ensure that the rescued children were safe and received the necessary support to recover from any adverse experiences.
She said the children were undergoing comprehensive medical screening, nutrition support and psychosocial counselling, while efforts were being made to trace their families and facilitate reunification where appropriate.
According to her, children who could not be reunited with their families would be considered for placement in approved care facilities after proper documentation, assessment and follow-up.
“The intervention is aimed at safeguarding the rights and welfare of the children, assessing their immediate needs, evaluating their health and educational conditions, and providing the necessary support for their long-term protection and wellbeing,” Imam said.
She assured that the children would continue to receive the necessary care and support to help them regain a sense of safety, belonging and confidence throughout the rehabilitation process.
The commissioner also directed that all orphanages, children’s homes and other child-care institutions operating in the state must be duly registered and approved by the Ministry of Social Development.
She further directed approved facilities to prominently display the inscription, “Approved by the Kwara State Government”, on their signposts to enable members of the public easily identify authorised child-care institutions.
Imam said the measure was part of the state government’s efforts to strengthen child protection and prevent vulnerable children from abuse, neglect and exploitation.
The Director of Social Work, Alhaji Hamzat Abdulfatah, who participated in the rescue operation, said the intervention had reinforced the need for stronger collaboration among stakeholders responsible for child protection.
He said, “This intervention has given these children hope and encouraged us to work together. We now understand that if we manage this process properly and follow due process, these children will have the opportunity to live better and more fulfilled lives.”
Caregivers at the government-approved shelter said the intervention had provided the children with improved living conditions, including better feeding, healthcare, education and psychosocial support.
The children, according to the ministry, have also expressed optimism that their new environment would provide them with better opportunities and contribute to a brighter future.
