The Kwara State Government has rescued 30 malnourished children from an unapproved orphanage and children’s home in Ilorin.

The children were rescued from Iranlowo Oluwa Orphanage and Children’s Home during an operation led by the Commissioner for Social Development, Hajiya Mariam Nnafatima Imam.

According to the ministry’s Press Secretary, Rasheedat Shodunnke, the intervention was carried out following the discovery of irregularities and concerns over the children’s welfare and living conditions.

The rescued children, aged between two and 15, have been moved to a government-approved shelter under the supervision of the Ministry of Social Development.

The ministry said the children are receiving medical attention, nutrition support and psychosocial counselling as part of a post-rescue assessment and rehabilitation programme.

The government is also assessing their health, educational needs and other immediate requirements while working to trace their families for possible reunification.

Children who cannot be reunited with their families may be placed in approved care facilities, subject to proper documentation, assessment and follow-up.

Meanwhile, the Kwara State chapter of the Association of Orphanages and Home Operators in Nigeria (ASOHON) has dissociated itself from the facility.

In a joint statement, ASOHON Kwara Chairperson, Mrs Omolehin Christie, and Secretary, Ayub AbdulGaniy, said the home was not a registered member of the association and was not recognised by it.

The association said it operates only recognised, registered and approved homes that comply with the guidelines and regulations of the Kwara State Ministry of Social Development.

ASOHON condemned practices that endanger the welfare and safety of children and said it remained committed to working with the ministry to ensure children in Kwara State are properly protected.