Lagos Government Assures of Comprehensive Renovation for Ketu Special Children’s Centre

The Lagos State Government has assured residents that the Ketu Special Children’s Centre will undergo a comprehensive renovation and is not abandoned, following concerns raised by a recent report.

The Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende, clarified that the temporary closure of the facility is part of a proactive measure aimed at ensuring the safety and wellbeing of children with disabilities.

In response to a Saturday PUNCH story titled “Inside Lagos Abandoned Children’s Centre Where Reptiles, Dogs Thrive,” which raised alarm about the state of the centre, Ogunlende explained that a thorough examination of the facility revealed significant issues that required urgent rehabilitation.

He stated that the decision to shut down the centre was made after the facility was deemed uninhabitable and unsafe for its occupants.

“We relocated the children to the Children Correctional Centre for Junior Boys in Yaba, where they are receiving specialised care and support. This move prioritises their safety and wellbeing,” Ogunlende said in a statement provided to The PUNCH.

The commissioner emphasized that the renovation of the Ketu Special Children’s Centre would be a multi-stage process, requiring professional expertise to restore the facility to an acceptable standard.

“We want to do things the right way to ensure the children’s safety. Rushing the process would expose them to harm, and that is not what we represent as leaders,” he added.

Ogunlende reaffirmed that the Lagos State Government remains committed to enhancing the lives of children with disabilities, noting that social inclusion has been a priority under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES Plus Agenda.

He highlighted the state’s comprehensive legal framework that protects people with disabilities (PWDs) and the establishment of the Lagos State Office of Disability Affairs, which works to address their needs.

“As a state, we have led the way in promoting social inclusion, providing skill acquisition programmes, and ensuring that all new government facilities are compliant with PWD standards,” Ogunlende stated.

He also mentioned ongoing efforts to create employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities within the civil service.

The commissioner also urged the public to be patient as the renovation process takes place and cautioned against spreading misinformation.

“Falsehoods like this can cause distrust among the citizenry. Our administration is dedicated to ensuring no one is left behind, especially those who need our support the most,” he said.

Lagos State has long been at the forefront of disability rights in Nigeria, with various initiatives aimed at integrating people with disabilities into society.

The renovation of the Ketu Special Children’s Centre is seen as part of the government’s commitment to improving facilities for vulnerable children in the state.

While the temporary closure of the centre has raised concerns, the government’s assurance of a comprehensive renovation and its focus on safety and inclusion has calmed some of the apprehension.

Residents have been urged to trust the process as the state works to create a safer, more inclusive environment for all its citizens.