News
Context: Lagos sets out standards for orphanage homes
Context, not a SOVCI activity: at a meeting with orphanage operators in Ikeja, Lagos State officials set out the standards expected of every registered orphanage home.
This is a context story about child welfare in Lagos. It is not about an activity of SOVCI.
On 1 July 2026, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported on a stakeholders’ engagement in Ikeja between the Lagos State Ministry of Youths and Social Development and the founders and operators of orphanage homes in the state. The meeting focused on operational standards and regulatory compliance.
What is expected of orphanage homes
According to NAN, the Commissioner for Youths and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, said the state is committed to protecting children from abuse, neglect, exploitation and trafficking, and to proper documentation, case management and family tracing where applicable. He said the state would consider establishing a halfway home as a transitional arrangement for orphans above 18.
The Permanent Secretary, Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, listed minimum standards for every registered home. They include registration, licensing and periodic renewal with the ministry; safe, hygienic and child-friendly facilities; qualified, screened and trained caregivers; documentation and case tracking; financial accountability; and functional child safeguarding policies. She said the ministry would continue routine monitoring, inspections and assessments.
Working together
The commissioner also noted that government alone cannot achieve sustainable child protection. “We deeply appreciate the invaluable contributions of faith-based organisations, NGOs, charitable institutions and private operators who continue to complement government efforts in caring for vulnerable children across Lagos State,” he said.
SOVCI works alongside orphanage homes in Ojo, supporting them with outreaches and with events for the children in their care.