Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, permanent secretary at the Ministry of Youths and Social Development, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring the welfare of children in orphanage homes across Lagos.

She gave the assurance on Tuesday at a stakeholders’ meeting on adoption, guardianship and fostering matters held in Lagos. The meeting is held quarterly.

Ms Oke-Osanyintolu stated that adoption in Lagos always follows due process, beginning with an application to the ministry from prospective adopters seeking to adopt from registered government-approved homes.

She said the process usually ends at the magistrate court, with the ministry collaborating with the police, relevant ministries and founders of orphanage homes.

The permanent secretary said the stakeholders’ meeting was initiated to ensure a seamless adoption process and strengthen synergy among relevant stakeholders.

She said the ministry regularly monitored orphanage homes to ensure adopted children received proper care and protection.

Ms Oke-Osanyintolu said Lagos State would also begin fostering, alongside existing adoption and guardianship arrangements.

She explained that fostering was similar to guardianship, except the government would provide financial support to foster parents.

(NAN)