Bayelsa cracks down on unlawful child adoption schemes

Joanah Gigi, the Bayelsa State Commissioner for Women, Children Affairs, Empowerment and Social Development, has issued a stern warning to operators of orphanage homes in the state, directing them to adhere strictly to laws and regulations governing child adoption, or face penalties, including the closure of their facilities.

n

The commissioner made this statement during a meeting with stakeholders, specifically private orphanage home operators, in Yenagoa, emphasizing the importance of handling all adoption-related matters in collaboration with the ministry.

n

This meeting took place shortly after her return from the National Policy Forum on Women, Children and Families, which was organized by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development in Abuja.

n

Gigi urged orphanage operators to ensure that all interactions with prospective adoptive parents are conducted within the framework of the law and in full compliance with established adoption procedures and regulations.

n

She stated that the meeting was convened to brief stakeholders on newly introduced national policies and strategies on child adoption and welfare, designed to address loopholes identified in previous systems.

n

According to the commissioner, the new policies aim to strengthen the welfare, protection, and empowerment of women, children, and families involved in the adoption process.

n

Gigi emphasized that any adoption process carried out without adherence to approved procedures, proper documentation, and certification by the ministry is considered illegal.

n

She added that orphanage homes found violating the regulations would be sanctioned in accordance with the law, and any children’s home that fails to comply with the new guidelines will face appropriate sanctions, including possible closure.

n

The commissioner stressed that the welfare and protection of every child remain a priority for the state government, and announced plans to embark on unscheduled monitoring visits to orphanage homes across the state to assess compliance.

n

Necessary guidance and documentation requirements would be provided to facilitate adherence to the new policies, she said.

n

Mrs. Agnes Oloye, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, noted that the Bayelsa State Government has consistently provided support for children in its orphanage homes, including care and assistance up to the age of 18.

n

Mr. Olufemi Koleola, the Chief Executive Officer of Blossom Orphanage, welcomed the idea of the new policies, suggesting that they should also address the pressure from prospective parents who usually want the process completed in a hurry.