The Lagos State Government has sealed four orphanage homes over allegations of child trafficking and irregular adoption practices, as part of a broader effort to uphold child protection standards across the state.
Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende, disclosed this during the ministry’s annual press briefing, held to commemorate Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s sixth year in office.
Ogunlende revealed that a recent monitoring and compliance exercise uncovered serious breaches of child welfare protocols, including evidence of baby trafficking and improper adoption procedures. Notably, God’s Time Orphanage in Igando and Lifetime Changer Orphanage in FESTAC were among those shut down due to severe violations.
“Some of these facilities were found operating outside the framework of the state’s child rights laws and orphanage registration procedures,” he said. “In the case of Lifetime Changer Orphanage, our investigations revealed direct involvement in trafficking babies, which is completely unacceptable.”
He emphasized that the ministry conducts routine inspections and acts swiftly upon receiving credible information about malpractice. “We remain vigilant and will not hesitate to take decisive action against any institution endangering the welfare of children,” Ogunlende stated.
To ensure proper oversight, the commissioner noted that 68 orphanages have been fully registered in the past year, while 45 others received provisional approval after passing rigorous screening. These institutions complement the existing government-owned orphanages in providing care for orphans and vulnerable children.
Reiterating the administration’s commitment to child welfare, Ogunlende said, “Governor Sanwo-Olu’s government is determined to ensure every child is raised in a safe, nurturing environment. We urge orphanage operators to adhere strictly to guidelines and engage directly with the ministry for guidance and compliance.”
He also warned against any attempts to bypass regulatory processes, affirming that only the Ministry of Youth and Social Development is authorized to oversee child placements and adoption procedures in Lagos State.
Additionally, he highlighted support provided to over 1,000 persons with disabilities (PWDs) in the past year through the Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA), including access to financial assistance, vocational tools, skill acquisition programs, and healthcare services.
