Edo launches plan to rescue street children

The Edo State Government has launched a comprehensive initiative aimed at addressing the persistent issue of street children, marking a renewed commitment to social development and child welfare.

Chief Olabisi Idaomi, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, announced the initiative during a press briefing on Friday in Benin City. According to her, the Ministry has already begun field operations to locate and assist children living or begging on the streets.

“The ministry has identified two distinct categories of street children—those who are homeless and those engaged in street begging,” Idaomi said.

The initiative kicked off with a series of sensitisation campaigns across major hotspots in the city, including Ihama (GRA), Ring Road, Ebo Street, and the Main Gate area near the University of Benin (UNIBEN). These outreach efforts, conducted in collaboration with non-governmental organisations (NGOs), were designed to identify children with family ties and facilitate their safe return home.

“Many of these children have traceable families. Our goal is to reunite them and help guide them toward a more structured and meaningful life,” she added.

Following the awareness campaigns, the Ministry conducted rescue operations, temporarily relocating the children to government-run shelters and care facilities. In some cases, relatives and caregivers have come forward to reclaim their children after being contacted by authorities.

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A significant proportion of the street beggars, Idaomi revealed, are of Northern Nigerian origin, often seen begging around Mission Road alongside their families. To address this, the Edo State Government has reached out to community leaders in the children’s home states, beginning discussions on repatriation and reintegration.

“We’re working hand in hand with stakeholders to ensure these children are safely returned to their states of origin, where support structures can be activated for their welfare,” Idaomi noted.

To complement these efforts, the Ministry has launched radio campaigns in local languages, aimed at spreading awareness among street children and their guardians. The broadcasts detail the government’s plan and encourage cooperation from affected families.

Idaomi also addressed the growing urban population in Benin City, which has worsened the street child crisis. “The city’s rapid growth is adding to the problem, but we are determined to tackle it systematically,” she said.

The government’s strategy includes gradual evacuation, temporary rehabilitation, and long-term reintegration with family or community systems. Authorities are also working to prevent reentry by urging the respective state governments to take full responsibility for the repatriated children.

The initiative demonstrates Edo State’s firm stance on child rights and protection, offering a pathway to safety and dignity for some of society’s most vulnerable members.

“We believe every child deserves a safe and supportive environment,” Chief Idaomi concluded. “This initiative is just the beginning.”

NAN