Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has concluded plans to resuscitate the state Children’s Parliament ahead of the May 27 Children’s Day celebration.

The Special Adviser on Women Affairs and Social Development to Governor Aiyedatiwa, Seun Osamaye, revealed this to journalists in Akure, the state capital, on Monday.  

Ms Osamaye said the step was part of the efforts to strengthen civic education and youth participation in governance.  

“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,” she said.

Highlighting the Children’s Day celebration activities, Ms Osamaye said the parliament members would visit the Ondo State House of Assembly to observe plenary proceedings and engage directly with the speaker.

She said children would be introduced to some parliamentary protocol and legislative processes, adding that the Safety Children International would facilitate the session.

“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.

“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 would prepare them to represent their peers, debate topical issues, and contribute meaningfully to child-focused policy discussions.

“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,” Ms Osamaye said.

She emphasised that the Children’s Parliament is more than a ceremonial group to nurture leadership and amplify the voices of children across the state.  

“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,” she said.