Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, alongside his wife, Nonye, reaffirmed their commitment to the development of Anambra’s children during the 2024 Children’s Day celebrations at Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka.
Themed “Enhancing Total Wellbeing Of The Nigerian Child, Through Quality Education And Skills Development,” this year’s event emphasized the importance of education and skills for the future of Nigerian children.
In his address, Governor Soludo praised the children of Anambra, describing them as the state’s glorious future. He pledged continued investment in education, calling it the bridge to a prosperous future. Highlighting his administration’s achievements, he noted the recruitment of 8,115 teachers based on merit, the provision of free education, and an 18.7% increase in school enrollment, underscoring that Anambra’s children are its greatest asset.
Governor Soludo urged collective investment in education through the Public-Private-Community-Partnership (PPCP) model, stressing that the government alone cannot meet the educational needs of the state.
Commissioner for Women Affairs, Children, and Social Welfare, Mrs. Ify Obinabo, echoed the theme’s relevance to the Governor’s policies. She detailed efforts to improve primary healthcare, the Anambra State Health Insurance Scheme (ASHIS) for children and women, and the provision of quality free education from primary one to JSS 3. She encouraged parents to foster a supportive home environment for their children, emphasizing the importance of mental well-being.
Hon. Victory Ekwunife, Speaker of the Children’s Parliament, expressed gratitude to the Governor for previous initiatives and called for the full implementation of the child rights law, provision of shelter for children, and a correctional center for those in conflict with the law.
The event featured a guard of honor by the Police Children School, a march past by various schools, cultural performances, and prize presentations to winners of various competitions.
Children’s Day is celebrated annually on May 27 to honor and promote the rights and well-being of children.
