‘We are giving children a voice in governance’, says commissioner
…As 7th Assembly of Lagos Children is inaugurated
Our children need to lend their voice to how issues affecting them are being deliberated upon in the process of legislation, for them to participate in governance at their own level.
The Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Mr Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende, expressed this view in his keynote address at the Valedictory Session of the 6th Assembly and Inauguration of the 7th Assembly of the Lagos State Children’s Parliament held at Lateef Jakande Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja.
His words: “This ceremony represents yet another milestone in our shared commitment to giving children a voice in governance and preparing them for future leadership. This present administration remains committed to promoting inclusiveness, participation and empowerment among children and young people. The children’s parliament is one of our most cherished platforms for achieving this vision as it allows children to actively engage in democratic processes, advocate for their rights and contribute meaningfully to national development.”
Mr Ogunlende commended members of the 6th Assembly for contributing towards advancing the objectives of the Ministry of Youth and Social Development in promoting child welfare and participation, which he urged members of the 7th Assembly to emulate.
Similarly, the Permanent Secretary, Pharm (Mrs) Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu stated that the Children’s Parliament since its inception has served as a platform where children are allowed to express their views, develop leadership skills and engage constructively on issues that affect their lives and the society at large which aligns with the vision of the Ministry of Youth and Social Development to promote Child Rights, ensure their protection and nurture citizens for tomorrow.
Pharm (Mrs) Oke-Osanyintolu highlighted the achievements of the 6th Parliament which included rendering charitable services to government homes and several institutions for the less privileged particularly the elders at Old People’s Home in Yaba; Serving as Water Ambassadors advocating for prompt payment of water bills and the responsible use of water among residents of the state on behalf of the Lagos State Water Corporation; and Participation in major child focused events like Children’s Day Celebration and commemoration of the Day of the African Child which gave them opportunities to contribute meaningfully to policy discussions.
“As a Ministry, we will continue to strengthen this initiative and provide the necessary support to ensure that the Children’s Parliament remains an enduring model for youth participation and leadership development in Nigeria. We also reaffirm our commitment to upholding the rights of our children and ensuring their holistic development in line with the Child’s Rights Law of Lagos State. We will continue to build a Lagos State where every child’s voice is heard, every dream is valued, and every child has the opportunity to become a leader of tomorrow”, she added.
On the occasion, Abdulsalam Anjolaoluwa was sworn in as the new Speaker of the 7th Assembly and Laptops were presented to all 42 members of the 6th Assembly to appreciate them for their meaningful engagements.
