By John Dike, Osogbo
Osun State Government has launched its Early Childhood Development (ECD) Strategy as a major step towards advancing child health and wellbeing.
It plans to present the initiative at the forthcoming National Council on Health for possible adoption at the national level.
The programme’s public presentation, held at the Conference Hall of the Ministry of Health in Osogbo, brought together health professionals, policymakers, and representatives of international development agencies.
In his speech at the event, the Health Commissioner, Barr. Jola Akintola, explained that the ECD Strategy was the outcome of a pilot study conducted in Ife Central Local Government Area, which informed the formation of a technical working group that developed the strategic framework.
He said, “This strategy is designed to support the growth and development of children across Osun State.
“It will be integrated into our infant welfare clinics and routine immunization programmes to enable early detection of developmental or neurological challenges.”
He stressed the importance of early intervention in addressing growth or cognitive issues in children, noting that such action is vital in helping them reach their full potential.
Also speaking at the event, Dr. Bosun Awoyemi, Special Adviser to the Governor on Hospitals Management Board, and Dr. Isiaka Adekunle, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, praised the Adeleke-led administration for its continued investment in child health.
Adekunle described the ECD initiative as a “game-changer” that would revolutionize how children’s growth and developmental milestones are tracked and managed in the state.
Dr. (Mrs.) Oluwatosin Olorunmoteni, the lead coordinator of the pilot programme, revealed that the project began in February 2024 in Ife Central. She thanked the government for scaling up the initiative statewide.
“The first five years of a child’s life are foundational to brain development. The earlier we identify and address developmental issues, the better chance that child has at thriving. This programme is a timely and essential investment in our children’s future,” she said.
Representatives of WHO, UNICEF, the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, and the Hospital Management Board commended the State Government for the bold step. They highlighted the potential of the strategy to detect developmental delays early; support evidence-based policy decision; and strengthen the overall child health system
The event culminated in the official signing and unveiling of the Osun State Early Childhood Development Strategy, symbolizing a firm commitment to child-centric governance and the enhancement of early life healthcare systems.
The state now looks ahead to presenting the model at the National Council on Health, where it could serve as a template for nationwide adoption.
