Represented by the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Pauline Tallen, President Buhari highlighted the various initiatives undertaken by the government to safeguard Nigerian children.
One of the significant interventions mentioned by the president was the school feeding program, which has successfully increased enrollment rates among children. President Buhari affirmed, "The government is providing one nutritious meal to increase enrollment, and it is gaining success."
This initiative aims to ensure that children have access to proper nutrition, thereby enhancing their overall well-being and educational outcomes.
President Buhari emphasised the importance of children as the greatest resource of any nation and the cornerstone upon which the future of the country is built. He stated, "Children are the greatest resources that any nation has and the foundation and building block upon which the future of any country is built. It is in line with this that we set aside this day to celebrate the protection and promotion of the rights of our children."
The president highlighted the significance of this year's Children's Day celebration, which coincided with the Inaugural Lecture and the beginning of a new government. He acknowledged that the chosen theme, "Investing in our Future means Investing in our Children," aptly captured the essence of the day. This theme provides a strategic platform for stakeholders to address the challenges faced by children in the country and explore viable solutions.
President Buhari emphasised that the issues affecting children encompass a wide range, spanning from physical to psychological concerns. He stressed that the chosen theme for 2023 aims to facilitate discussions on how parents can instil positive values in their children.
Good parenting, he noted, plays a pivotal role in promoting the physical, emotional, and psychological development of a child into adulthood. Therefore, parents must be conscious of their responsibilities towards their children as character development begins at home.
The president emphasised the urgent need for parents and relevant stakeholders to instil values that would contribute to the regeneration of society for a better tomorrow. He called upon all organisations, including the media, private sector, teachers, and parents, to renew their commitment to shaping the lives of children and instilling the right values.
Addressing the implementation of laws such as the Child Rights Act, President Buhari expressed satisfaction that 35 states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), have adopted the Act. He expressed optimism that Bauchi State, which is yet to adopt the Act, would do so in the near future.
The president also mentioned the successful domestication of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act by all 36 states, commending parents, teachers, religious leaders, community leaders, and other stakeholders for their efforts in raising children who would make Nigeria proud.
President Buhari urged children to show respect to their parents, teachers, and other older members of society, as they continue to work towards realising their dreams. He concluded his remarks by encouraging Nigerian children to pursue their aspirations with diligence, discipline, and dedication.
As Nigeria commemorates Children's Day, the reaffirmation of the federal government's commitment to protecting and nurturing the nation's children serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to safeguard their rights, provide them with quality education, and empower them for a brighter future.