Ahead of the 2025 Children’s Day, the Ondo State Government on Monday said it has revived the Children’s Parliament after over 10 years.
Speaking at a press conference held in Akure, ondo state capital, the Special Adviser to the Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr. Seun Osamaye, said the step was part of the efforts towards strengthening civic education and youth participation in governance.
Dr Osamaye explained that the state government, was committed to giving children a voice and a platform for meaningful engagement.
This development is part of a broader initiative marking the 2025 Children’s Day celebration, with activities tailored to empower children, promote leadership, and reinforce the importance of rights and responsibilities among young citizens.
She said “The Ondo State Children’s Parliament, which has been moribund for over a decade, is being revived.
“This initiative is not just symbolic; it is part of our effort to raise a generation of informed, confident, and responsible young leaders.”
According to her, as part of the activities, members of the parliament will visit the Ondo State House of Assembly on Tuesday to observe plenary proceedings and engage directly with the Speaker.
The session, facilitated by Safety Children International, will introduce the children to parliamentary protocol and legislative processes.
The young parliamentarians will then participate in a two-day orientation programme between Wednesday and Thursday, where they will receive training on legislative roles, leadership, and advocacy.
The training will prepare them to represent their peers, debate topical issues, and contribute meaningfully to child-focused policy discussions.
Mrs. Osamaye emphasized that the Children’s Parliament is more than a ceremonial group—it is a strategic platform to nurture leadership and amplify the voices of children across the 18 local government areas of the state.
This year’s Children’s Day theme, “Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bully-Free Generation,” aligns with the goals of the parliament, which seeks to promote confidence, assertiveness, and civic awareness among young people.
While other celebration activities—such as public speaking contests, cultural performances, and a grand march-past— remain on the agenda, the revival of the Children’s Parliament has drawn particular attention as a sustainable step toward youth engagement in governance.
Over 2,500 pupils from 100 schools are expected to participate in the celebration, with competitions rewarding academic excellence and cultural expression.
Winners will receive cash prizes of ₦500,000, ₦200,000, and ₦100,000 for first, second, and third place respectively.
“This year’s Children’s Day is about more than a celebration.
“It’s about empowerment, education, and giving our children the tools to be future leaders,” Osamaye concluded.
