John F. Kennedy was particular when he said that: “Children are the world’s most valuable resource and its best hope for the future”. Against this backdrop, I make bold to say that children are the most treasured possessions on earth. Today, Nigeria celebrates Children’s Day, a special occasion dedicated to recognising the importance and rights of children across the nation. This year’s theme, “For every child, every right,” underscores the universal and indivisible rights of every child, regardless of their background or circumstances. It serves as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility to ensure that all children enjoy their fundamental rights and opportunities for a bright future.
Accordingly, it is imperative to understand chiildren’s rights. Children’s rights are enshrined in various international agreements, most notably the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC), which Nigeria ratified in 1991. These rights encompass a wide range of protections and entitlements, including the right to education, healthcare, protection from abuse and exploitation, and the right to express their views freely.
Despite significant strides in policy and legislation, many Nigerian children still face challenges in realising their rights. Issues such as poverty, inadequate access to quality education, child labour, and malnutrition continue to hinder the progress of children across the country. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated these challenges, disrupting education and healthcare services, and pushing more families into poverty. In the same vein, in a country battling economic hardship, the brunt trickles down to the children. At 40.53 percent, food inflation, and widespread insecurity sabotage good nutrition at the table of families. Dataphyte revealed that 31.5 percent of Nigerian children have stunted growth due to malnutrition. The state of affair leaves more to be desired.
This year’s theme is intentional and strategic. I like the tenacity with which the theme is delivered. “For every child, every right”. Every child has right to education. Every child in Nigeria deserves access to quality education. This means not only primary education but also opportunities for secondary and higher education. Investing in education is crucial for breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering children to contribute positively to society.
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Again, right to health is most important in a child’s life. Ensuring that every child has access to adequate healthcare is fundamental. This includes immunizations, regular medical check-ups, and treatment for illnesses. Efforts must be made to reduce child mortality rates and improve overall health outcomes.
Progressively, children should be protected from exploitation. Children must be shielded from all forms of exploitation, including child labour, trafficking, and abuse. Strengthening laws and their enforcement, alongside raising public awareness, is essential for protecting vulnerable children.
More so, children have right to safe environment. Children have the right to grow up in a safe and nurturing environment. This involves providing safe homes, communities, and schools free from violence and neglect.
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Similarly, right to participation should not be denied of children. Children should be given a platform to express their opinions on matters that affect them. Encouraging their active participation in decision-making processes fosters a sense of belonging and empowerment.
Flowing from the above, the government has essential role to play in the protection of children’s right. The Nigerian government has a crucial role in upholding and promoting children’s rights. Policies and programmes aimed at child welfare need to be adequately funded and implemented effectively. Additionally, civil society organizations, communities, and families play vital roles in advocating for and protecting the rights of children.
Children’s Day is not only a time for celebration but also for reflection and action. It is a day to acknowledge the progress made and to renew commitments to ensuring that every child’s rights are respected and fulfilled. Events and activities organised across Nigeria aim to raise awareness and promote the well-being of children. From educational workshops to health campaigns, these activities highlight the importance of investing in the younger generation.
For Every Child, Every Right” is more than a theme; it is a call to action. It demands that we, as a society, prioritise the needs and rights of children, ensuring that they have the foundation to grow, thrive, and reach their full potential. As Nigeria celebrates Children’s Day, let us commit to building a future where every child can enjoy their rights fully and equally. Our collective efforts today will shape the leaders, innovators, and citizens of tomorrow.
At Inside Success Nigeria, we are sangfroid about the rights of a child and ultimately prioritise every child’s dream. Kindly subscribe to our website and follow us on Instagram @InsideSuccessNigeria to get more updates.
7 Comments
For every child, for every right!
Thank you Daniel for this heartfelt article on Children’s Day.
For every child, Every right
Wonderful piece as always. Happy Children’s Day to all the children out there 💙🫶🏾
This is so relevant. The kids of today are the future of tomorrow.
Children are precious. “For every child, every right”!
Nice one
I remember when I was a much younger doctor, ladies (numerous) used to come for “the section”! For each lady I rejected to carry out such a heinous and unthinkable act, I got lashed by my chief medical officer. The big question is: should innocent blood be shed on the altar of “not planned l, and I need to keep fit”?
We should in fact make laws that would sentence to death any doctor or medical officer who is involved in ruining our tomorrow and of course the ladies too should be hung.
Up every child!!!
#ForEveryChildEveryRight
I felt like a baby when my mother called me to wish me happy children’s day ❤️
It feels so good to be a child!
“For every child, every right”!
“For every child, every right”!