The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Chief (Mrs.) Oluwakemi Opeyemi Afolashade, received the commendation on Tuesday during Sofiatās official reunion with her family at the Ministry’s office. She expressed gratitude to God for Sofiat’s safe recovery and acknowledged the support of the Kogi State Ministry of Women Affairs, which played a key role in locating her in Kogi State.
The Commissioner also thanked Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for the opportunity to serve in a humanitarian role, noting that the Ministryās intervention reflected its commitment to the welfare and protection of women and children in the state.
āThis is a testament to the quick response and dedication of the Ministryās staff,ā she said, while conveying the Governorās warm regards to Sofiatās father. She also recommended that Sofiat receive adequate medical care to support her recovery from the trauma.
Director of Personnel, Finance, and Supply at the Ministry, Alhaji Abdulrasheed Ubandawaki, described the incident as every parentās worst fear and congratulated the family on their daughterās safe return.
Sofiatās father, Mr. Abdulganiyu Ayinde, recounted that she had gone to Oja-Oba market to purchase items but failed to return home. The familyās search continued until last Wednesday, when the Ministry was notified that Sofiat had been found in Kogi State.
He expressed his appreciation to Governor AbdulRazaq, the Ministry of Women Affairs, and the Chairman of Asa Local Government Area, Alhaji Sheu Amasa, for their collective efforts. He explained that Sofiat’s identity was confirmed using her thumbprint through the National Identification Number (NIN) database.
The reunion highlights the collaborative efforts between state agencies and local authorities in addressing missing persons cases and ensuring the safety of vulnerable individuals.
