The Oyo State Government, in partnership with SOS Children’s Village, has introduced a new set of guidelines to regulate alternative care arrangements for children, aimed at protecting vulnerable children from abuse and neglect.
The guidelines were formally launched at the Local Government Training Centre in Agodi, Ibadan, and are designed to improve standards in homes and institutions caring for children outside their biological families.
Speaking at the event, the First Lady of Oyo State, Mrs. Tamunominini Makinde, voiced serious concern about the welfare of children with special needs, particularly those who are unable to express themselves or seek help.
“These guidelines will help establish clear boundaries and foster accountability in the care system,” she said. “We must ensure our children are not subjected to sexual, emotional, or physical abuse.”
Mrs. Makinde noted that Oyo State is taking the lead in safeguarding children in alternative care settings and hinted that similar guidelines could soon be adopted at the national level to promote uniform standards across Nigeria.
“These protocols serve as a bridge between the government and caregivers. I’m proud that Oyo is leading this change,” she added.
Also speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Mrs. Toyin Balogun, highlighted the need for collective responsibility in implementing the guidelines effectively. She called for ongoing collaboration and investment from government bodies, civil society organizations, and communities.
“Our ministry remains committed to fostering social inclusion and protecting the rights of every child. Stakeholders must ensure that these guidelines are implemented in a child-centered, safe, and regulated manner,” she said.
In his remarks, Ayodeji Adelopo, who represented the National Director of SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria, stressed the importance of prioritizing family-based care. He noted that alternative care should only be considered when it is truly necessary and appropriate, emphasizing that every effort must be made to keep children within their family units.
The newly launched guidelines mark a significant step toward ensuring safer, more structured care environments for vulnerable children in Oyo State.
