The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo State Council, has extended its humanitarian outreach to the Ondo State Children Correctional Centre, as part of activities marking its week-long Press Week celebrations.


The State Chairman of the union, Prince Leke Adegbite said the outreach was in line with NUJ’s long-standing culture of celebrating not only the union and its members, but also giving back to society, particularly the less privileged.
The Chairman who was represented by the Secretary, Comrade Meshack Olaoluwa, explained that the visit to the correctional home was deliberately included among the Press Week activities to demonstrate the union’s commitment to compassion and social responsibility.

He emphasized that one of the core mandates of the union is to promote justice, fairness and equal treatment for all, stressing that the union remains aware of the challenges faced by inmates and correctional facilities.

He assured the management that the gesture would not be a one-off event, pledging that the union would continue to reach out beyond the annual Press Week.


“This token is not the end. By God’s grace, it will not be until next year again before we reach out. That is who we are as NUJ,” he said, while praying for God’s blessings on the management and beneficiaries.


In his response, the State Director of the Children Correctional Centre, Mr. Oyebuwa Adebayo, expressed deep appreciation to the NUJ on behalf of the management, staff and inmates. He described the gesture as timely and impactful, offering prayers for God’s continued blessings and multiplication of resources for the union and its members


He assured that the items donated would be properly distributed to the intended beneficiaries, including children in conflict with the law and other vulnerable children under the care of the ministry. He emphasized that such gestures contribute meaningfully to the welfare and rehabilitation of the children, who he said would greatly appreciate the support.


The Director also used the opportunity to commend the Ondo State Government for its consistent commitment to the welfare of vulnerable children.

He acknowledged the efforts of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, noting that since assuming office, the administration has ensured regular subventions and monthly care for children in state facilities, covering feeding, clothing, laundry services and facility maintenance.


According to him, the governor’s efforts have also helped to sustain a peaceful environment across the state, which he described as critical to the effective operation of social welfare institutions and public engagements such as the NUJ visit.

Oyebuwa further appreciated the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Seun Osamaye, describing her as proactive and supportive, while thanking the executive members of the state government for their continued backing of social welfare initiatives.