Bauchi State governor Bala Mohammed has stressed the need for governments at all levels, stakeholders, parents, guidance, and society to ensure the protection of children and inculcate good morals in them.
He said it is imperative to provide the children with the necessities of life such as shelter, food, and education, describing them as priceless gifts from God and the future of the state and nation.
Governor Mohammed spoke at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium in Bauchi as children in the state joined their counterparts across the country to celebrate the 2024 Children’s Day.
He acknowledged the negative impact of insecurity on children, saying that all hands must be put on deck to safeguard children against criminal activities and prevent them from getting involved in crime and other evil acts detrimental to society.
Mohammed, who was represented by secretary to the state government, Barrister Ibrahim Mohammed Kashim, noted that education empowers children to dream, explore, and realise their aspirations while opening doors to new opportunities, broadening their horizons, and helping them become active contributors to society.
The governor emphasised the importance of community support in creating an enabling, conducive environment for the growth and well-being of the children.
He promised that his administration would continue to develop policies, laws, and programmes that will continue to protect children against the dangers of negative behaviours and said that parents, educators, and the community must create an environment that fosters children’s holistic development.
The governor expressed his administration’s commitment to executing more developmental projects capable of improving the living standards of citizens of the state, particularly children.
On her part, the state commissioner for women affairs and child development, Hon Hajara Jibrin Gidado, stressed that the importance of the family in protecting the children cannot be overemphasized, noting that, though there are ways to protect children, “it would be best to start with education in the home.”
She said adequate education is another fundamental means of unlocking the potential of children and applauded the Governor Bala Mohammed-led administration for adequate provision of necessary facilities and equipment that have provided enabling and conducive environment for the development of the children.
Gidado also urged parents and guardians not to give up on instilling good morals and discipline in their children and being good role models.