Peter Obi | File Image
‘As the future of our society, everything should be done to ensure their proper development’
By Valentine Amanze
The Labour Party (LP) Presidential candidate in the 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi, has called on the government and wealthy Nigerians to invest more in the children’s development.
Obi gave the advice in his message to Nigerians on May 27, 2024 Children’s Day celebration.
Obi said, “As the future of our society, everything should be done to ensure their proper development.”
The LP standards bearer said that it was unacceptable that four out of every 10 Nigerian children were in child labour.
Also read: Obi’s support to society remains unparalleled – Bishop Ezeokafor
Writing on his X handle, @PeterObi, on Monday, the Anambra State former governor said, “On this day, we celebrate Children’s Day, I rejoice with all the Nigerian children, for whose sake, we remain firmly committed in our struggle for a New Nigeria.
“This day, which is set aside to celebrate the Nigerian child, presents us the opportunity to focus on our children – the future leaders of our society, and also reminds us of the need to invest in their growth; and support and nurture their dreams.
“Every Nigerian child deserves access to quality education, healthcare, and a safe and secure environment to live and thrive.
“We must, therefore, invest in these key areas of development for their sake and the future of society.
“Sadly, the challenges of child labour persist in our Nigerian society today. A National Bureau of Statistics report states that 39.2 per cent of our children are in child labour and 22.9 per cent of children are involved in hazardous work.
“The reports further assert that four out of every ten children in Nigeria are trapped in child labour, therefore, putting the children and the future of society at risk. In tackling the challenges of child labour, we must focus on pulling more people out of poverty and ensuring the respect of the rights of every Nigerian child.
“While encouraging the parents, guardians, teachers and benefactors who see to the training of our children, I urge them to continue to give their best to raise responsible citizens in our nation.”
valoa2000@yahoo.com
