Delta State, renewed its resolve to protect children across all communities, with the Chairman of the Delta State Child Rights Implementation Committee, Mrs. Oghenekevwe Agas, urging stakeholders to reinforce child-protection systems at the local government level.
The Chairman on Tuesday, assured that both the committee and the Ministry of Women Affairs remain fully active and ready to respond swiftly to any reported case of child abuse.
Agas, who also serves as Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community and Social Development, gave the charge during a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Chike Edozien Secretariat in Asaba.
The session brought together Heads of Personnel Management from all LGAs, representatives of NGOs, the Nigeria Union of Teachers, the Nigeria Union of Journalists, orphanage operators, the Catholic Women Organisation, FIDA and other key actors involved in child safety and welfare.
Agas noted that the committee was established to ensure full implementation of the Child Rights Law, explaining that periodic meetings help the state assess progress and effectiveness.
She stressed that local governments are legally required to set up their own Child Rights Committees to complement state-level efforts.
Highlighting the urgency of the work, she said cases of child abuse are reported almost daily, and the committee consistently intervenes rescuing children, mediating family issues and ensuring vulnerable minors receive protection. “These meetings do not replace the work; they help us strengthen it,” she added.
Partner agencies also presented updates. Venerable Emmanuel Amaje, Chairman of ASOHON in Delta State, raised concerns about illegal adoption practices, warning that some operators and regulatory bodies were undermining established processes.
He said only legitimate homes remain under the ministry’s supervision, adding that violators are delisted and reported.
Amaje further noted the financial and operational challenges faced by orphanages, appealing for government support.
Meanwhile, the HPM of Bomadi Local Government, Mr. Asu Eteku, reported a disturbing rise in drug abuse across Bomadi, Patani and Burutu LGAs.
He called for government-backed rehabilitation centres to address the growing crisis and its impact on young people.
The meeting ended with a comprehensive Q&A session and renewed directives for HPMs to strengthen grassroots Child Rights Committees across all local government areas to enhance rapid response and prevention efforts statewide.
