Some educators have called for a renewed commitment in safeguarding the rights of every child in both rural and urban communities in Nigeria. They made the call in interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in celebration of the 2024 Children’s Day, on Monday in Lagos.
This year’s celebration has the theme: “For Every Child, Every Right”.
Prof. Abidogun Babajide, National President of Early Childhood Association of Nigeria, told NAN that prioritising children’s rights and fostering their active participation would be fulfillment of moral duty for Nigeria.
He said that the country would also be investing in a better tomorrow by doing so.
“Every child, regardless of his background or circumstance, deserves to live in a world where his rights are respected, protected and fulfilled.
“Children’s rights are indeed human rights, they are not negotiable and conditional because they are inherent and must be protected at all costs.
“Yet, sadly, in many corners of the world, including Nigeria, these rights are under attack in both homes and in schools.
“From conflict zones to areas plagued by poverty, from discrimination to exploitation, our children face threats that should never have a place in their lives,” he said.
Abidogun advocated creation of spaces, where children and the youth could raise their concerns, share their dreams and shape the world they would inherit.
Mr Yomi Otubela, President, National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools Nigeria, said that celebrating children meant acknowledging the potential that would shape a better world.
“By thinking globally and acting locally, they become agents of change, capable of addressing both local and global challenges with creativity and compassion.
“As educators, we have a crucial role to play in nurturing global citizens.
“We must integrate global citizenship education into our curricula, ensuring that it is not just an add-on but a core component of our teaching,
“Our schools must be environments where students are encouraged to explore and discuss global issues, engage in collaborative projects and express themselves through various forms of art,” he said.
Mr Sunday Fowowe of the Association of Nursery and Primary Education Instructors in Nigeria, on his part, said that the theme of the celebration should serve as a reminder of a collective duty to nurture and empower the next generation.
According to him, there is the need to equip children with skills, knowledge and values needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.
He expressed optimism that stakeholders could collectively work toward creating a brighter future for children.
He said that the future should be built on a foundation of quality education, equity and opportunity for all.
“As we reflect on the significance of today’s celebration, let us recommit ourselves to the principles of child-centered education, inclusivity and holistic development.
“Let us strive to create learning environments that foster creativity, critical thinking and love for lifelong learning,” Fowowe said. (NAN)
