The Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has said that the state will continue to champion policies and actions that protect children, promote their rights, and empower them to thrive in a society free from fear, intimidation, or discrimination.
Governor Aiyedatiwa stated this on Tuesday while addressing a large gathering of school children, teachers, parents, and dignitaries at the 2025 National Children’s Day celebration held at the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Arcade, Igbatoro Road, Akure.
The Governor described the annual Children’s Day as not just a day of fun and celebration, but a solemn moment of reflection and responsibility, adding that the day “reminds us of the immeasurable value of our young ones and our duty as a state and society to protect, empower and uplift them.”
He noted that the chosen theme, “Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation”, was a powerful call to action that demanded a united front against all forms of bullying and abuse, particularly in schools and online spaces where children are most vulnerable.
He said: “This year’s theme is a patriotic command; it calls on every one of us to take responsibility and stand against the scourge of bullying. It challenges us to create a society that is safe, inclusive and free from any form of intimidation or abuse.
“Bullying, whether in schools, on the playground or in digital spaces, is a threat to the confidence and emotional well-being of our children. It erodes their self-worth and stifles their dreams. But today and every day forward, Ondo State says: No more!”
The Governor emphasized the need for parents, teachers, traditional rulers, religious institutions, and community leaders to collaborate in creating a culture where kindness, empathy, and support are prioritized.
He also outlined the steps taken by his administration to support children’s development and well-being, citing the payment of WAEC fees for secondary school students, renovation of public schools, and the recruitment of over 2,000 teachers to boost learning outcomes in public primary and secondary schools across the state.
Governor Aiyedatiwa, who at the event inaugurated the 3rd Ondo State Children’s Parliament, used the opportunity to celebrate the resilience and courage of children across the state, encouraging them to be leaders in kindness and mutual support.
He also praised the efforts of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development and all critical stakeholders for their dedication to protecting children and ensuring the success of this year’s celebration.
Earlier in her welcome address, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Affairs, Dr. Seun Osamaye, appreciated the governor for his dedication to the welfare of women and children in the state.
She said the celebration was a reflection of the administration’s ongoing efforts to ensure inclusiveness, gender equality, and sustainable support for the younger population.
“The commitment to the growth and development of our children is reflected in the Our Ease Agenda of inclusive governance of Mr. Governor as new innovations were introduced into the lineup activities to mark this year’s event as opposed to previous years.
“This administration has shown time and again that it truly cares about our children. From educational support to child protection programs, we have seen consistent action that puts the needs of the child at the centre of governance”, she added.
In his goodwill message, the Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye, commended the governor for prioritizing education and for significantly reducing the state’s debt burden, noting that these achievements are clearly reflected in his OUR EASE Agenda for Ondo State.
Also speaking, the representative of the Ondo State Children’s Parliament, Poroye Olamide, appreciated the governor for giving children a voice and platform to express themselves. She called for continuous collaboration to end all forms of abuse and harassment of children.
The celebration featured a range of entertaining and educational activities, including an oratory skills competition, match past competition, cultural display, and the KidsCon Raffle Draw (Lucky Deep). Winners in various categories were also recognized with Lucky Star Prizes, presented personally by the Governor to the delight of the crowd.
Dignitaries at the event included wife of the governor, Mrs. Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa, the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami; the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti; Chief of Staff; Prince Segun Omojuwa; traditional rulers; religious leaders; heads of security agencies and APC chieftains.