The Lagos State Government has urged parents, guardians and caregivers to embrace positive and intentional parenting as a vital step towards raising responsible children and building stronger families.
Eko Hot News reports that the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) made the call during its Parenting Programme themed “Transforming Families Through Positive and Intentional Parenting,” held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
The programme brought together parents, caregivers, child development experts, stakeholders, members of the media and ministry officials to discuss practical strategies for strengthening family relationships and improving child development.
Delivering the keynote address, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. (Mrs.) Bolaji Cecilia Dada, described the family as the first and most important institution where children develop values, attitudes and character.
She explained that the environment within every home significantly influences children’s emotional well-being, confidence and future behaviour.
According to the Commissioner, parenting extends beyond meeting children’s physical needs. She said it requires deliberate efforts to nurture discipline, empathy, respect, emotional intelligence and sound moral values.
Hon. Dada noted that parents serve as role models whose words, actions and daily conduct shape the future of their children and influence the society they will eventually build.
She observed that modern parenting has become more demanding due to technological advancement, social media, changing family structures and evolving societal values.
The Commissioner expressed concern over the increasing influence of social media on young people, particularly members of Generation Z, noting that while digital platforms offer educational opportunities, they also expose children to harmful content and unhealthy influences.
She encouraged parents to remain actively involved in monitoring their children’s online activities while maintaining open communication that promotes trust and responsible decision-making.
Hon. Dada stressed the importance of creating homes where children feel safe, respected, valued and free to express themselves without fear.
She also linked several social challenges, including domestic violence, substance abuse, bullying and juvenile misconduct, to weak family relationships and inadequate parental guidance.
According to her, strengthening parenting practices remains one of the most effective ways to nurture responsible citizens and promote peaceful communities.
The Commissioner reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s administration to protecting women, children and families through policies and programmes that strengthen family life.
She explained that WAPA, through its Domestic Violence Unit, continues to organise family-focused initiatives aimed at promoting responsible parenting, preventing domestic violence and supporting healthy family relationships.
The programme also featured a presentation by the Executive Director of the Women’s Rights and Health Project, Mrs. Bose Ironsi.
Mrs. Ironsi described parents as the first advocates and teachers of their children, emphasizing that effective parenting should be built on love, trust, communication and mutual respect.
She advised parents against adopting excessively harsh parenting methods, warning that constant negative criticism could affect children’s emotional development and self-esteem.
Mrs. Ironsi also encouraged parents to maintain peaceful relationships within the home, explaining that children often absorb the emotional atmosphere created by adults around them.
She expressed concern over the growing number of absent parents and urged both mothers and fathers to remain fully involved in the upbringing, education and personal development of their children.
Participants at the programme commended the Lagos State Government for creating a platform that addresses contemporary parenting challenges while equipping families with practical skills for raising emotionally healthy and responsible children.
Stakeholders noted that positive parenting strengthens family bonds, promotes children’s mental well-being and contributes to safer communities and sustainable social development.
The Parenting Programme forms part of the Lagos State Government’s broader commitment to family welfare, child protection and community development. Through continuous public education and stakeholder engagement, the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation aims to empower parents with the knowledge and support needed to raise confident, disciplined and compassionate children who will contribute positively to society.
