The Ondo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to child welfare and inclusive governance as no fewer than 500 children converged on the Government Housei, Alagbaka, Akure, for a special Christmas celebration.
The colourful Children’s Christmas Party, coordinated by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, brought together children from various communities across the state, including those from orphanages and less-privileged backgrounds, for a day of fun, bonding, and festive cheer.
Chairing the event, the Wife of the Governor and First Lady of Ondo State, Mrs. Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa, interacted warmly with the children, shared goodwill messages, and participated in activities marking the yuletide season.
Addressing the gathering, Mrs. Aiyedatiwa thanked God for the success of the programme and appreciated parents and guardians for their sacrifices in nurturing the children.
She described children as precious and invaluable to society, urging caregivers to go beyond words by prioritising their wellbeing and proper upbringing.
According to her, the popular saying that children are leaders of tomorrow must be backed by deliberate actions, noting that among the children present were future professionals and leaders who would shape society.
She further advised parents to always listen attentively to their children, stressing that open communication remains critical in guiding them amid growing social pressures.
The First Lady also offered prayers for the children’s protection, academic excellence, and overall success, expressing hope that families would continue to gather in good health to celebrate future Christmas seasons.
In her welcome address, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr. Seun Osamaye, said the event was designed to give children a safe, joyful, and memorable Christmas experience, regardless of their social background.
She explained that vulnerable children were deliberately included, adding that the initiative was structured to ensure inclusiveness without stigmatisation.
Dr. Osamaye described the Children’s Christmas Party as a reflection of the Aiyedatiwa-led administration’s commitment to child development, protection, and happiness, noting that every child deserves moments of love, care, and celebration.
She disclosed that the programme featured games, dancing, competitions, and interactive sessions aimed at fostering friendship and social interaction, while gift items were also distributed to all the children.
According to her, the gesture underscored the administration’s resolve to back its child-centred policies with practical action under the Our Ease Agenda, which prioritises the welfare of women and children in the state.
Also speaking, the Administrative Secretary of the ministry, Bishop Oluseye Odusola, commended the state government for prioritising child welfare and pledged the ministry’s continued commitment to its mandate.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the Wife of the Deputy Governor, Dr. Abosede Adelami, wives of commissioners, female political appointees, officials of the Primary Health Care Development Agency who emphasised the importance of child immunisation, and the Speaker of the Ondo State Children’s Parliament.
They described the event as a landmark in child-focused governance, applauding the state government for giving children a sense of belonging, visibility, and voice.
The celebration ended on a joyful note as the children were treated to music, refreshments, and gift presentations, expressing excitement and appreciation for the memorable Christmas experience.
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