• Tasks stakeholders on involvement
• Aiyedatiwa seeks action against bullying
• Inaugurates children’s parliament
Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to achieving zero HIV births across the state, as it marks the 2025 Children’s Day with intensified efforts to prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV.
In a statement yesterday, the Chief Executive Officer of Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA), Dr Folakemi Animashaun, emphasised the state government’s dedication to eradicating HIV transmission from mothers to children. She noted that through sustained public education, heightened awareness, and improved access to essential healthcare services, new HIV infections among infants can be significantly reduced, leading to healthier futures for children in the state.
Animashaun described the Children’s Day celebration as a poignant reminder of the collective responsibility to provide a safe and nurturing environment for every child, stressing that all children have a right to a healthy start in life free from the burden and stigma of HIV. She further called for unified efforts to establish support systems that protect and promote children’s health. ”
Animashaun, while reaffirming the agency’s commitment to inclusive HIV management and control, praised the exemplary leadership of Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, describing his administration as a model for public health innovation in Nigeria. She, therefore, assured stakeholders of the government’s continued collaboration with partners to drive sustainable progress in the fight against HIV in the state.
RELATEDLY, Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has stressed the need for everyone to stand against the scourge of bullying and abuse, particularly among children, to create a society that is safe, inclusive and free from any form of intimidation or abuse.
Aiyedatiwa, who emphasised the need for parents, teachers, traditional and religious institutions, and community leaders to collaborate in creating a culture where kindness, empathy, and support are prioritised, stressed that the state would continue to champion policies and actions that protect children, promote their rights, and empower them to thrive in a society free from fear or discrimination.
The governor stated this yesterday while addressing a gathering of school children, teachers, and parents during the 2025 Children’s Day celebration held at the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Arcade, Akure, the state capital.
The governor equally said his administration would 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.
Aiyedatiwa, who at the event inaugurated the third 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.
On her part, 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.
The Olowo of Owo, Oba Ajibade Ogunoye, commended the governor for prioritising 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, 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.
