The Oyo State government, in collaboration with the SOS Children’s Village, has unveiled fresh guidelines for alternative care of children in the state.

The document, which was launched at the local government training centre, Agodi, was aimed at preventing abuse in homes and institutions caring for vulnerable children in the state.

Addressing the gathering, wife of the governor, Tamunominini Makinde, expressed deep concern about the plight of children with special needs, especially those who are unable to speak or defend themselves. She noted that the guidelines will play a significant role in setting boundaries and accountability within the care system.

“We must put these strategies in place so that our children are not sexually, emotionally, or physically abused,” she said. The first lady highlighted the urgent need for the guidelines, citing disturbing reports from some care homes.

She further hinted that similar frameworks may soon be adopted at the federal level, noting that ongoing discussions are in place to ensure that all Nigerian children in alternative care settings are safe.

“These guidelines will stand as a guide between the government and the caregivers. Oyo State is setting the standard, and I’m proud to be part of this transformational moment.”

The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion, Mrs Toyin Balogun, said the successful implementation of the guidelines requires continuous commitment, collaboration, and investment from government agencies, non-governmental organisations and communities.

While restating the ministry’s commitment to social inclusion, the commissioner enjoined stakeholders to ensure that the guidelines are implemented in a safe, regulated, and child-focused manner.

Earlier, the representative of the National Director of SOS Children’s Villages, Nigeria, Ayodeji Adelopo, emphasised the importance of adhering to the principles of necessity and suitability in placing children in alternative care, stressing that every effort must first be made by parents to keep children within their families.