
Ondo State Governor, Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has revived the state’s Children’s Parliament, more than a decade after it was abandoned by previous administrations.
The governor, represented by his Special Adviser on Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Oluwaseun Osamaye, disclosed this on Monday in Akure while unveiling activities lined up for the 2025 Children’s Day celebration, scheduled for May 27.
The governor said his administration was committed to the welfare and development of the children of the state, while the children’s parliament was part of the efforts to orient the children of the state towards leadership positions.
He said the children would visit the Ondo State House of Assembly to observe plenary proceedings and interact with the Speaker.
“The Ondo State Children’s Parliament, which has been moribund for over a decade, is being revived. Tomorrow, the children will be introduced to the Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly and will observe the plenary of the lawmakers with the assistance of Safety Children International,” the governor stated.
He stated that the children would also participate in a two-day orientation programme between Wednesday and Thursday, where they would be trained on their parliamentary roles and responsibilities.
Similarly, at a stakeholders workshop held on Monday, in Akure, as part of the Children’s Day activities, the Chairman of the Ondo State Universal Basic Education Board, Mr Victor Olabimtan, called on all stakeholders to support the government in fighting against bullying among children in primary and secondary schools in the state.
Olabimtan said, “You will agree with me that building a bullying generation is a task that involves everyone: the parents, teachers and children. A bullying-free generation is key to the development and success of our children.
“Towards eradicating this menace which is a form of social vice in our schools, the State Government through the State Ministry of Education Science Technology, TESCOM ( Teaching Service Commission) and my agency, ODSUBEB, in collaboration with s non-state actors like Non-Governmental Organizations, NGOs, and Society Organizations, CSOs, had implemented various initiatives to combat bullying in our educational institutions.
“These initiatives include guidance and counselling services, campaigns, and a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying. Our guidance counsellors are trained to provide emotional support, and counselling referrals to relevant services.”