Mrs Makinde Reaches 12 Orphanages with Easter Outreach

…She reaffirms commitment to vulnerable children, donates relief items across the state

The wife of the Governor of Oyo State, Tamunumini Makinde, has extended an Easter outreach to children in 12 orphanage homes across the state, reaffirming the government’s commitment to the welfare of vulnerable groups.

Represented by the wife of the Deputy Governor, Ajibike Lawal, the First Lady said the initiative was aimed at celebrating the Easter season with less privileged children and reminding them that they are loved and valued by the state government.

Speaking during the visit, Mrs. Lawal noted that the outreach was not just a celebration but a demonstration of compassion and solidarity with vulnerable children across Oyo State.

“This visit is to show these children that despite their challenges, they are not forgotten. They are loved and cared for by the government of Oyo State,” she said.

She explained that the gesture was carried out on behalf of the First Lady to ensure that the children experience the joy and love associated with the Easter season.

Mrs. Lawal also commended caregivers and guardians at the orphanage homes for their dedication and selflessness in nurturing the children, describing their efforts as a true reflection of humanity.

“I am deeply moved seeing how well these children, especially the babies, are being cared for. What you are doing is commendable and a blessing,” she added.

She encouraged caregivers to continue showing love and support, emphasizing that acts of kindness and generosity would always be rewarded.

Highlighting the importance of love and compassion, she noted that children raised in a caring environment are more likely to grow into responsible individuals who will, in turn, contribute positively to society.

Also speaking, the Chairman, House Committee on Women Affairs and Community Development in the Oyo State House of Assembly, Mrs. Olufunke Adeniyi-Olajide, described the outreach as part of sustained efforts by the First Lady to prioritise child welfare across the state.

She noted that similar interventions are regularly carried out, particularly during festive periods, to ensure that vulnerable children are not excluded from celebrations.

“This is something we do consistently. It is not just about today; it is about building a culture of care and inclusion for these children,” she said.

Encouraging the children, Adeniyi-Olajide said their present circumstances should not limit their future ambitions.

“They can become anything in life, presidents, governors, doctors, and other professionals. There is no limit to what they can achieve,” she stated, while urging caregivers to remain committed to providing proper guidance and support.

The outreach covered several locations, including Jesus Children Mission Outreach in Lagelu, the Juvenile Correctional Institution in Sango, Ido Local Government Area, Crown Top Disability Support Services in Awotan, Restanchor Total Child Parenting Foundation in lagelu, and the ABC Foundation in Ologuneru. Similar activities were also extended to other parts of the state, including Iseyin and Ogbomosho.

At the Restanchor Total Child Parenting Foundation, the President and Founder, Pastor Prince Leye Adefioye, who spoke on behalf of beneficiary homes, commended the First Lady for her commitment to humanitarian service and child welfare, noting that her visit had brought renewed hope and a sense of belonging to the children.

He also appealed for sustained government support for the children.

Mrs Makinde donated cash, food items, toiletries and others to children in Rehabilitation Centers, disabilities and children with special needs across the state.

The Easter outreach forms part of ongoing efforts by the Oyo State government to support vulnerable populations and promote inclusive social welfare across the state.