Ondo First Lady Seun Aiyedatiwa urges parents to protect children despite hardship, stressing care, guidance and emotional support

The First Lady of Ondo State, Mrs Seun Aiyedatiwa, on Wednesday evening urged parents not to abandon their children despite the economic hardship facing the country. She spoke at the Children’s Christmas Carol organised by the Ondo State Government in Akure, the state capital.

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Mrs Aiyedatiwa described children as treasures from God who must be properly nurtured and cared for, warning against neglect driven by financial pressure.

She stressed that current economic challenges should not weaken parental responsibility or emotional support.

“I would like to speak to the parents. Please let us take care of these children. Don’t behave like those who say children are not the future of tomorrow because of the challenges currently confronting the country,” the First Lady said.

She also urged parents to listen attentively to their children and remain closely involved in their lives to prevent negative peer influence. Mrs Aiyedatiwa emphasised that consistent communication is essential, even when parents are exhausted by daily struggles.

“I also urge parents to listen to these children; that is very important because there is peer pressure out there. Even when you are tired, still endeavour to listen to them,” she added.

Earlier, the Ondo State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr Seun Osamaye, said children aged between five and ten were selected from various organisations across the state for the event.

She explained that children from less-privileged and charity homes were included to foster inclusion and a sense of belonging.

According to the commissioner, the programme provided opportunities for interaction with the First Lady, meaningful recreational activities, and the presentation of gifts, reflecting the government’s commitment to child welfare.

Also speaking, the Speaker of the Ondo State Children’s Parliament, Miss Olamide Poroye, thanked the governor and his wife, describing the celebration as uplifting and morale-boosting for the children.

Mrs Aiyedatiwa’s appeal comes amid growing concern over the social and psychological impact of economic hardship on families across Nigeria.

Rising inflation, unemployment, and cost-of-living pressures have increased children’s exposure to neglect, emotional strain, and harmful influences.

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In Ondo State, the government has continued to strengthen programmes focused on child protection and inclusion, particularly during festive periods, as part of broader efforts to safeguard the wellbeing of young people.