SHUN EXAM MALPRACTICE, DRUG ABUSE, CULTISM —SOLUDO ADMONISHES CHILDREN

REPORTER: BEN ILECHUKWU

Governor Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra State has called for strict enforcement of child rights laws by all enforcement agencies to guarantee the safety of the Nigerian child.

Governor Soludo, who made the call in a message to this year’s Children’s Day celebration held at Dr. Alex Ekwueme square, Awka, described children as the future leaders of the nation, who deserve maximum protection, qualitative education and improved welfare package.

The atmosphere at the Square was that of joy and excitement as pupils, students, teachers and parents gathered to celebrate the 2023 Children’s Day in their beautiful attires.

And it was the second time Governor Soludo attended the Children’s Day as the Executive Governor of the state.

The overjoyed Governor reminded parents of their enduring role in taking care of their children and he beckoned on them not to abdicate their responsibility.

Governor Soludo, who noted that Anambra State is filled with abundant talents, reiterated that human capital development remained its greatest source of wealth.

He advised the children to shun examination malpractice, drug abuse and cultism, which he said could cut short their lives.

Earlier in a welcome address, the Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Mrs. Ify Obinabo, enjoined concerned Nigerians, irrespective of religion, academic and social backgrounds to synergize in equiping and reshaping the mindsets of the children so that they could contribute meaningfully to the society.

The Commissioner applauded the Governor and his wife, Dr. Nnoye Soludo, for their efforts in ensuring a better life for the vulnerable children in the state.

Also, the Speaker, Anambra State Children’s Parliament,
Miss Victory Ekwunife, called on government at all levels to enact and implement laws that would punish those who engaged in child marriage and child labour to serve as a deterrent to others.

In their separate remarks, the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Onochie Anyachebelu, and the Speaker of Anambra State House of Assembly, Mr. Uche Okafor, stated that promulgation and domestication of the Child Rights Law was designed to protect the rights of the Nigerian child and called for full implementation of the law.

The colourful event featured presentation of Anambra Children calisthenics,
cultural dance, march past as well as cutting of cake by the Governor and his wife.

This year’s event had its theme: “the state of the Nigerian Children Today: Proper parenting for value Re-orientation and National Consciousness.”

EDITED BY CHUKWUBUIKE MADU