….as ASOHON marks World Orphans’ Day

By Funmi Ajumobi

Justice Ronke Harrison emphasized the importance of equal opportunities for all children, particularly orphans and vulnerable youth, at an event organized by the Association of Orphanages and Home Operators in Nigeria (ASOHON), Lagos Chapter to mark World Orphans Day, on Monday.

Represented by a legal luminary, Mrs. Shola Adegbonmire, Harrison spoke on the theme: “Securing Brighter Future for the Orphans”. She highlighted the need for collective responsibility in ensuring that every child is accounted for and receives adequate care.

At the one-day event held at the Bimbo Odukoya Foundation Teens Hall at The Fountain of Life Church, Harrison urged the community to take proactive measures to support orphans and vulnerable children.
She stated, “We all have a responsibility to ensure they are protected, loved, clothed, and sheltered. This should not be left solely to orphanages. It takes a village to raise a child, and beyond basic needs, these children require social development and opportunities for a better life.”

Prince Ganiu Olayiwola Dosunmu, the state coordinator of ASOHON, echoed Harrison’s sentiments, stressing the importance of including all children, particularly orphans, in budget and policy decisions.
He remarked, “We must ensure that every child in Lagos State, including those who are often overlooked, is accounted for in our planning and funding. We urge the government to support orphanages and homes that care for these children by providing accessible budgets to enhance their welfare.”

Rev. Mrs. Ebun Oluwatoyin Idowu, Deputy Coordinator of ASOHON in Lagos State, called for collaboration among the government, private sector, and compassionate individuals to improve the lives of these children. “By working together and supporting policies that protect our children, we can create a society where every child feels loved, supported, and valued,” she stated.

Mrs. Aderonke Oyelakin, the State Public Relations Officer for ASOHON Lagos State Chapter and Executive Coordinator of the Bimbo Odukoya Foundation, highlighted that this year’s Orphans Day celebration presents a perfect opportunity for caring and socially responsible Nigerians to show their support for orphans and vulnerable children in their time of need.

Oyelakin urged both Nigerians and international organizations to assist orphanages by providing the care, respect, and sense of security that these children deserve. She highlighted the urgent need to prioritize their well-being, noting that ongoing economic challenges in the country could lead to malnutrition and inadequate medical care for many children in these facilities