. In Enugu, children task govt to prioritize well-being, safety
CHIGOZIE AMADI
Suspended Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has extended warm greetings and heartfelt wishes to children across the state in celebration of the 2025 Children’s Day.
The Rivers State representative on the 7th Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, Chief Tony Okocha also felicitated with children in the state
The embattled Rivers Governor, Fubara, in his special message to mark the 2025 Children’s Day Celebration, described this year’s national theme, “Tapping the Untapped Natural Treasure,” as a powerful reminder of the immense and often overlooked potential that lies within every child.
“You, our children, are the most precious treasure we have. Your talents, dreams, energy, and creativity are limitless gifts waiting to be nurtured and unlocked for the good of our state and our nation,” the Governor stated.
Reaffirming his administration’s unwavering commitment to the well-being and development of children, Governor Fubara highlighted ongoing investments in education, healthcare, and child protection. These efforts, he said, are aimed at building a future where every child in Rivers State can thrive.
“We are creating platforms where your gifts can shine, because we believe that every child in Rivers State has something unique to offer. Let this day remind you that you matter, your voice counts, and your dreams are valid,” he added.
The Governor also commended the vital role played by parents, teachers, and caregivers in raising the younger generation, and called on all stakeholders to continue working collaboratively to help every child discover and fulfill their potential.
On his part, the Rivers NDDC Representative, Chief Tony Okocha in a statement by his media aide, Amb. Jacobs Chimezie Happiness, described children as the “future leaders, innovators, and change-makers” of tomorrow.
He emphasized the collective responsibility of parents, communities, and institutions to provide a nurturing environment that promotes the holistic development of every child.
Chief Okocha reiterated the commitment of the 7th Governing Board of the NDDC to investing in the future of children through quality education, healthcare, and social welfare. According to him, these pillars are essential in securing a prosperous and inclusive future for all.
He also charged parents, guardians, and caregivers to renew their dedication to the proper upbringing of their children, highlighting the importance of discipline, love, and education in shaping responsible citizens.
“To our children,” he said, “never stop dreaming, never stop learning, and never stop exploring. Your curiosity and creativity will shape a brighter future for our community, state, and nation.”
However, A cross section of children in Enugu State have appealed to the federal and Enugu State governments to prioritise their well-being, education, and safety.
According to them, they want to grow up in a country that truly values and invests in them.
They made this appeal on Tuesday in Enugu at the sideline of the children’s day celebration.
The celebration which was marked with march past and cultural displays, is a moment to reflect on the needs and rights of the nation’s youngest citizens.
Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in separate interviews, a student of the Government Secondary School, Enugu, Miss Chioma Okafor, expressed gratitude for witnessing the day, which she confessed was unique to her.
Okafor asked the state government to protect the children from harms, abuse, and molestion by ensuring full implementation of the Child Rights Act.
She asserted that implementing the Act would go a long way in reducing the incidences of maltreatment that some children suffer in the hands of their parents, guardians and teachers.
“With increasing reports of abuse, child labour, and insecurity, we are demanding stronger protection laws and safer communities.
“We should be able to play and go to school without fear,” Okafor added.
On her part, Miss Chiamaka Ugwu, a 12-year-old student from Nsukka, requested the Enugu State government to provide better-equipped schools, trained teachers, and access to digital learning tools.
This, according to her, would ensure that teaching and learning activities were not only enhanced but also conducive for both the teacher and student.
“We want libraries, computers, and clean classrooms. Every child should be in school, not on the streets,” she added.
Ugwu commended Gov. Peter Mbah for the attention his administration had given to education, urging him, however, to ensure that basic education was absolute free in the state.
She pointed out that though the government had declared basic education free in the state but alleged that teachers were still asking students to pay for one fee or other.
Ugwu maintained that this had forced children from poor families to drop out of school, which increased the number of out-of-school children in the state.
Also, a student of College of Immaculate Conception (CIC) Enugu, Valentine Udoka, regretted that many children still lacked access to basic healthcare and proper nutrition.
Udoka urged the government to improve primary healthcare services, provide free medical checkups in schools, and ensure healthy meals for all pupils.
