Lagos shuts down 4 orphanages, approves 68 fully registered ones, gives provisional approval to 45 others
By Jeph Ajobaju, Chief Copy Editor
Lagos government has announced the shutting down of four orphanages over alleged illegal activities involving baby trafficking and adoption.
Youth and Social Development Commissioner Mobolaji Ogunlende made the disclosure at an event marking Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s sixth year in office.
Said he: “In the year under review, God’s Time Orphanage, Igando, was shut down because of violation of procedure in child rights law, registration and mismanagement.
“In the Lifetime Changer Orphanage, FESTAC, we found out they were trafficking babies. Some other organisations found out they do not follow the procedure when they give out children for adoption. They do things within their realm because we have officers who continue to go out.
“We have access to information as a government ministry to protect those children. When we get this information, we ensure they are brought to book. This is the reason why we shut down.
“I also want to appeal to orphanages, saying that we have guidelines. We also encourage you to come to the ministry that we offer you guidelines to open an orphanage home.’’
Ogunlende disclosed that the state government, through the Youth and Social Development Ministry, approved the establishment of more orphanages in 2024, totalling 68 fully registered ones and 45 others that received provisional approvals after rigorous screening to ensure compliance with basic standards.
These approvals complement government-owned orphanages in caring for vulnerable children, he explained.
“The administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is fully committed to ensuring that our children are raised in conducive environments where they receive proper care and attention.”
Ogunlende reiterated that the ministry remains the sole authority for placing children in registered orphanages and warned against circumventing established protocols.
In the past year, he added, 1,000 Persons With Disabilities (PWDs) have been empowered directly by the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA) through financial support, skills acquisition, or provision of vocational and work tools and health care access.
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