The Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) has called on parents, guardians and caregivers to embrace positive and intentional parenting as a foundation for raising responsible children and building stronger families.
The call was made during a 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, stakeholders, members of the media and Ministry officials to discuss practical approaches to strengthening family values and addressing the realities of modern parenting.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, described the family as the first environment where children develop their values, attitudes and character.
She noted that parenting extends beyond providing children's physical needs and requires deliberate efforts to instil discipline, empathy, respect, emotional stability and sound moral values.
Dada expressed concern over the growing influence of technology and social media on young people, particularly Generation Z, warning that misuse of digital platforms can expose children to harmful content, cyberbullying, negative peer pressure and distorted values.
She urged parents to take greater interest in their children's online activities, maintain open communication and provide guidance that will help them make responsible choices in the digital age.
According to the Commissioner, many societal challenges, including domestic violence, substance abuse, bullying and juvenile delinquency, often stem from unhealthy family relationships and inadequate parental guidance.
She stressed that strengthening parenting practices remains one of the most effective ways of raising responsible citizens and building safer communities.
Dada reaffirmed the Lagos State Government's commitment to supporting families through policies and programmes that protect women and children, strengthen family relationships and promote responsible parenting.
Facilitating the programme, Executive Director of the Women's Rights and Health Project, Mrs. Bose Ironsi, described parents as the first advocates of their children.
She encouraged parents to build relationships based on love, trust, communication and mutual respect rather than fear, control or excessive discipline.
Ironsi also cautioned against the frequent use of negative language when correcting children and advised parents to remain actively involved in their children's development.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Rianat Ajibike Onigbanjo, described the family as the first school where children learn values such as love, discipline, responsibility and integrity.
She urged participants to apply the lessons from the programme in their homes, noting that strong families contribute significantly to a peaceful and prosperous society.
The programme concluded with a renewed call on parents, caregivers and stakeholders to embrace positive and intentional parenting as a shared responsibility while taking advantage of available support services for family welfare and child protection.