The Lagos State Government has warned founders and operators of orphanage homes across the state to comply strictly with approved operational standards and regulatory requirements or face sanctions, as part of efforts to strengthen child protection and safeguard the welfare of vulnerable children.
A statement by the Lagos State government said the warning was given during a stakeholders’ meeting organised by the Creches and Orphanages Unit of the Ministry of Youth and Social Development at the Folarin Coker Staff Clinic Conference Hall in Alausa.
The meeting, themed “Operational Standards and Regulatory Compliance for Orphanage Homes,” brought together founders and operators of orphanage homes to promote collaboration and improve standards in residential child care across Lagos.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende, described orphanage homes as key partners in the state’s child protection system.
He said the facilities are expected to provide more than shelter by creating safe and supportive environments where children can access quality education, healthcare, psychosocial support and opportunities to achieve their full potential.
According to him, compassion alone is not enough, as it must be backed by professionalism, accountability and full compliance with established laws and operational standards.
Ogunlende said the state had put in place clear operational guidelines to protect children from abuse, neglect and exploitation while ensuring proper documentation, effective case management and dignified care delivered with transparency and accountability.
“Children requiring institutional care must be placed in approved homes through due legal processes and court orders
