The Enugu State Government has restated its commitment 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 event, which took place at the state School Management Board, Enugu, was organized by the Ministry of Children and Gender Affairs in collaboration with the Enugu State Children’s Parliament, with support from the UNICEF Enugu Field Office.
Ngozi Enih, Commissioner for Children and Gender Affairs, Enugu State, said that 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 continued efforts in promoting child health, education and protection across the state. She described the Children’s Parliament as a vital platform that ensures children “are not only seen but heard loudly, clearly and constructively.”
The commissioner noted that the government is intensifying efforts to strengthen child protection systems, expand access to quality education, and bridge the gap between rural and urban children.
She also reminded parents of their obligations to cater for their children, stressing that child neglect and abandonment remain punishable offences.
“This is your day, your future, and you deserve to be safe and empowered,” she added. Malachi Agbo, Commissioner for Information, represented by Cletus Eze, urged parents and community stakeholders to guide children toward the right values.
“Teach a child the way he should grow, and he will never depart from it,” he said.
Agbo 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, communication officer, Enugu Field Office, UNICEF, further emphasized the importance of active parental presence in a child’s upbringing.
She said that the children’s day is UNICEF Global Day of Action for Children, marking 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.
