By Ahmed Rufa’i, Dutse
On the occasion of World Children’s Day (WCD) 2024, children from Jigawa State have called on the state’s House of Assembly to enact laws that will enhance education and protect their rights. This appeal was made during a special session held in the state’s legislative chamber, which was presided over by Jamila Aliyu Abdulkadir, the Speaker of the Jigawa State Children’s Parliament.
Abdulkadir emphasized that access to basic education, healthcare, and other essential rights are the foundation for a child’s future. She urged the state’s lawmakers to pay attention to the needs of children and address the key issues that affect their growth and well-being, as these are crucial for building a better future for the next generation.
“Access to education, health, and protection of rights is key to a brighter future for any child,” Abdulkadir stated, appealing to both the legislative and executive arms of government to prioritize these fundamental areas.
In conjunction with the celebrations, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Nigeria congratulated Nigerian children on their special day, encouraging them to stay committed to their studies and avoid negative behaviors, as they represent the future leaders of the nation.
World Children’s Day is observed annually on November 20th to mark the United Nations’ adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) in 1989. The 2024 theme, “Listening to the Future,” highlights the importance of listening to children’s voices and ensuring they have a role in shaping decisions that impact their lives.
Since 2017, World Children’s Day has served as a key platform for raising awareness on global issues affecting children, including education, health, and protection from abuse. This year, children’s participation remained central to the celebrations, underscoring their importance in advocating for the change they wish to see.
In Jigawa, the children took the opportunity to engage directly with the state lawmakers, advocating for stronger laws that support education and safeguard their rights. Their active involvement in the state’s legislative process reflects a growing movement to ensure that children’s voices are heard and their needs addressed at the highest levels of government.