Kwara Launches Digital Child Welfare Platform for Orphanages
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
KWARA, Nigeria – The Kwara State Government unveils plans to modernise child welfare services through digital technology and improved support systems for orphanages and vulnerable children across the state.
The initiative was announced on Thursday during the inauguration of the Kwara chapter of the Association of Orphanages and Homes Operators in Nigeria in Ilorin.
The programme features a two-day seminar on foster care advocacy and training on the Children First Software; a digital record management platform designed for orphanages and childcare homes.
Kwara Commissioner for Social Development Mariam Nnafatima says the initiative marks a significant step toward improving standards of care for vulnerable children.
“Supporting vulnerable children requires structured systems, professional training and sustainable care models rather than goodwill alone,” she says.
According to Nnafatima, the newly inaugurated ASOHON chapter will strengthen collaboration among orphanage operators and improve coordination within the child welfare sector.
She says participants will receive training on modern caregiving methods, child rights protection, emotional support and administrative practices aligned with international standards.
The commissioner, however, identifies poor funding, inadequate facilities and rising operational costs as major challenges facing orphanages across the state.
ASOHON State Coordinator Christie Omolehin describes the Children First Software as a major breakthrough in improving child welfare documentation.
“Many homes still rely heavily on paper records, making it difficult to retrieve information and properly monitor the welfare of children,” Omolehin says.
She explains that the platform will help operators maintain accurate digital records, improve monitoring and reduce risks of abuse and trafficking.
ASOHON National President Gabriel Oyediji says the initiative reflects broader efforts to strengthen child protection systems across Nigeria.
He urges the government, religious institutions and development partners to support sustainable foster care systems and improved welfare structures for vulnerable children.
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