The Ondo State Government has vowed to take decisive action against individuals and establishments found culpable in the lodging of underage girls in hotels and other acts deemed exploitative and harmful to minors.
This was disclosed during a courtesy visit by the new Comptroller of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) in Ondo State, CIS Felicia Amaka Anara, to the Ministry of Women Affairs in Akure.
Speaking on behalf of the Governor, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Affairs, Dr Seun Osamaye, described the trend of underage girls being lodged in hotels, hawking during and after school hours, and loitering as unacceptable. She emphasized the government’s commitment to clamp down on such practices and ensure the safety and dignity of every child in the state.
“The government will not tolerate any form of exploitation against young girls. Those found culpable will be brought to justice,” Dr Osamaye said.
CIS Anara said her visit was prompted by disturbing findings from hotel inspections across the state, where underage girls were reportedly found lodged. She called for strong collaboration with the Ministry to curb the growing menace of child labour, trafficking, and other abuses.
“The inspection revealed worrying trends. We are here to strengthen ties with the Ministry of Women Affairs to address these issues through enforcement and stakeholder sensitization,” Anara stated.
She also requested the Ministry’s support in establishing a crèche within the NIS command to promote exclusive breastfeeding among nursing mothers in the agency, aligning with national health policies.
During the visit, the NIS delegation toured the Ministry’s skills acquisition centre to explore areas of mutual interest and support for vulnerable populations.
Both institutions agreed on the need for robust awareness campaigns on the legal implications of child exploitation, ensuring that offenders cannot plead ignorance.
The collaboration marks a renewed effort by the state government and federal agencies to combat human trafficking, support women’s welfare, and protect vulnerable children across Ondo State.
