The Enugu State Government has restated its dedication to protecting, empowering, and amplifying the voices of every child in the state, as it joined the global community to mark the 2025 World Children’s Day.
The celebration, held at the Enugu State School Management Board, was organized by the Ministry of Children and Gender Affairs in collaboration with the Enugu State Children’s Parliament and supported by the UNICEF Enugu Field Office.
Speaking at the event, Ngozi Enih, Commissioner for Children and Gender Affairs, said the annual celebration serves as a reminder of the value and potential of every child. “Your voices are powerful, your dreams are valued, and your rights are non-negotiable,” she told the children.
Enih commended UNICEF, schools, and community groups for their continuous efforts to promote child health, education, and protection across the state. She described the Children’s Parliament as a critical platform that ensures children “are not only seen but heard loudly, clearly, and constructively.”
The commissioner highlighted ongoing government efforts to strengthen child protection systems, expand access to quality education, and address disparities between rural and urban children. She also reminded parents of their obligations, noting that child neglect and abandonment remain punishable offenses. “This is your day, your future, and you deserve to be safe and empowered,” she said.
Malachi Agbo, Commissioner for Information, represented by Cletus Eze, emphasized the importance of guiding children toward positive values. “Teach a child the way he should grow, and he will never depart from it,” he said. He further praised the talents displayed by young participants during earlier televised activities, noting that the event, supported by UNICEF, showcased children with remarkable potential. “I saw credibility, I saw potency, I saw children ready to grow from strength to strength,” he said.
Ijeoma Onuoha-Ogwe, Communications Officer at UNICEF Enugu Field Office, highlighted the role of parents in shaping children’s lives. She explained that the celebration is also UNICEF’s Global Day of Action for Children, commemorating the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child. “The voices of children should be heard and given the chance to talk about their lives, their hopes, and their rights,” she said.
The event provided an opportunity to celebrate children’s achievements while reinforcing the importance of protecting their rights and creating opportunities for empowerment. Enugu State Government reiterated its commitment to ensuring every child is safe, nurtured, and given the platform to reach their full potential.
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