The Plateau State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has commenced a clampdown on orphanages operating without registration across the state.
The Commissioner, Hon. Caroline Panglang Dafur, led a four-day inspection tour of 23 registered orphanages in Jos South, Jos North, and Jos East local government areas.
She said the inspection aimed to ensure that all orphanages comply with state regulations, warning that homes operating illegally will be sealed and sanctioned.
“It is the responsibility of the ministry to ensure that orphanage homes operate within the confines of the law,” Dafur stated during the tour.
She also advocated for alternative care systems, such as fostering and adoption, as a more sustainable way to transition children from orphanages into the society.
“Children should grow up in a family setting where they experience love, care, and parental supervision to blend well into society,” she said.
The commissioner disclosed that Plateau State is the first in Nigeria to deploy the Child First Software in partnership with Both Ends Believing (BEB).
“With the software, we can monitor the child’s transition process, activities in the home, and data from the comfort of our office,” she explained.
Chairperson of the Gender Commission, Barr. Olivia Dazyam, who joined the inspection, said the exercise would help fight child trafficking and abuse.
“This is a step in the right direction. It strengthens our responsibility to protect children’s rights and ensure their safety,” Dazyam said.
Orphanages visited included Our Lady of Apostolic (OLA) Zawan, Simji Girl Child Home, Fellowship of the Needy, City Ministries (Gida Bege), and several others.
Home managers expressed appreciation for the visit and pledged to work with the ministry, especially on adopting family-based care models for children.
