Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to advancing policies that protect children’s rights, empower their growth, and ensure they thrive in a safe, inclusive environment free from fear and discrimination.
Speaking at the 2025 National Children’s Day celebration on Tuesday at the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Arcade in Akure, the governor addressed a large assembly of students, educators, parents, and officials. He emphasized that Children’s Day is more than a celebration—it is a moment for reflection on society’s duty to nurture and protect its youngest members.
Governor Aiyedatiwa highlighted the event’s theme, “Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation,” describing it as a compelling call for collective action against bullying and abuse, especially in schools and online where children are most vulnerable.
He stated, “This year’s theme demands that we all take responsibility to stand firmly against bullying. We must foster communities that are safe, supportive, and free from intimidation. Bullying, whether in schools, playgrounds, or digital spaces, undermines our children’s confidence and dreams. Ondo State declares: Enough is enough.”
The governor called on parents, educators, traditional and religious leaders, and community members to work together to cultivate a culture grounded in kindness, empathy, and support for children.
He also outlined initiatives his government has undertaken to enhance children’s welfare, including waiving WAEC fees for secondary school students, renovating public schools, and recruiting over 2,000 teachers to improve education standards throughout the state’s primary and secondary schools.
At the event, Governor Aiyedatiwa inaugurated the third Ondo State Children’s Parliament, celebrating the resilience and leadership potential of children across the state, and encouraging them to champion kindness and mutual respect.
He praised the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development alongside other stakeholders for their unwavering dedication to child protection and the success of the celebration.
In her opening remarks, Dr. Seun Osamaye, Special Adviser on Women Affairs, commended the governor’s sustained focus on the welfare of women and children. She highlighted that the celebration reflects the administration’s commitment to inclusivity, gender equality, and ongoing support for youth development.
Dr. Osamaye noted, “The governor’s Our Ease Agenda has introduced new innovations this year, underscoring this administration’s genuine concern for children’s growth—from educational aid to comprehensive child protection.”
The Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye, in his goodwill message, lauded the governor for prioritizing education and effectively reducing the state’s debt, achievements he said are evident in the Our Ease governance agenda.
Poroye Olamide, representing the Ondo State Children’s Parliament, expressed gratitude to the governor for providing children a platform to be heard and called for sustained efforts to eradicate all forms of child abuse and harassment.
The event featured a variety of engaging activities, including oratory and march-past competitions, cultural performances, and the KidsCon Raffle Draw. Winners were awarded Lucky Star Prizes, personally presented by the governor, much to the delight of attendees.
Among the distinguished guests were the governor’s wife, Mrs. Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa, Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami, Secretary to the State Government Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief of Staff Prince Segun Omojuwa, traditional rulers, religious leaders, security agency heads, and APC party leaders.
