Bayelsa moves against illegal adoption practices

Bayelsa State's Commissioner for Women, Children Affairs, Empowerment and Social Development, Joanah Gigi, has issued a stern warning to operators of orphanage homes, demanding strict adherence to laws and regulations governing child adoption. Failure to comply risks severe sanctions, including the closure of facilities.

The commissioner emphasized the necessity of handling all adoption-related matters in direct collaboration with the ministry. This directive follows a meeting with stakeholders, particularly private orphanage operators, held shortly after Gigi's return from a National Policy Forum on Women, Children and Families in Abuja.

During the meeting, Gigi briefed stakeholders on newly introduced national policies and strategies aimed at improving child adoption and welfare. These policies are designed to address loopholes identified in previous systems and strengthen the protection and empowerment of all parties involved in the adoption process.

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Any adoption process carried out without adherence to approved procedures, proper documentation, and certification by the ministry is illegal.

"Any adoption process carried out without adherence to approved procedures, proper documentation, and certification by the ministry is illegal," Gigi stated. She further warned that orphanage homes found violating these regulations would face legal sanctions. The state government reiterated its commitment to child welfare, announcing plans for unscheduled monitoring visits to assess compliance.

Mr. Olufemi Koleola, CEO of Blossom Orphanage, welcomed the new policies, suggesting they should also address the pressure from prospective parents who often seek to expedite the adoption process.

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Any children’s home that fails to comply with the new guidelines will face appropriate sanctions, including possible closure. The welfare and protection of every child remain a priority for the state government.