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From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
Kaduna State governor, Uba Sani has frowned at child labour and trafficking which he noted remained prevalent in the society.
Gov. Sani said child labour and trafficking must be condemned in the strongest terms, adding that every child has the right to a safe and happy childhood, free from exploitation and abuse.
The governor stated this on Monday during the 2024 Children’s Day celebration held in Kaduna.
Gov Sani who was represented by his Deputy Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, said his government is Inclusive for every child to ensuring that every child, regardless of their background, enjoys equal rights and opportunities in the State.
“We are dedicated to providing social protection for our children through relevant laws and initiatives.
“Our free and compulsory basic education policy ensures that every child from Primary 1 to JSS 3 receives quality education without financial barriers.
“We have distributed free books and uniforms, and we are continuously expanding our educational infrastructure by constructing and commissioning new schools and classrooms.” He said.
The Governor also urges parents to make available to their daughters the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) which is commencing in Twenty-one states in Nigeria, including Kaduna,
He noted that HPV is a leading cause of cervical cancer, responsible for 95 percent of cases.
“Tragically, cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among Nigerian women and a leading cause of cancer deaths, especially among our young women aged 15 to 44. This is second only to breast cancer.
I” want to use this opportunity to urge all parents and guardians to support this vital vaccination program. Ensuring our daughters are vaccinated against HPV is a crucial step towards protecting their health and securing their future. Let us all commit to making this initiative a success.
“I am pleased to share that as part of this year’s celebrations, UNICEF has announced a significant health initiative. Twenty-one states in Nigeria, including Kaduna, will commence the vaccination of girls aged 9-14 with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.
“HPV is a leading cause of cervical cancer, responsible for 95 percent of cases. Tragically, cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among Nigerian women and a leading cause of cancer deaths, especially among young women aged 15 to 44. This is second only to breast cancer.
“I want to use this opportunity to urge all parents and guardians to support this vital vaccination program. Ensuring our daughters are vaccinated against HPV is a crucial step towards protecting their health and securing their future. Let us all commit to making this initiative a success”. He added.
Speaking on the theme of this year’s celebration “Inclusion, for Every Child,” Gov. Sani opined that it underscores the necessity of ensuring that every child, regardless of their background, enjoys equal rights and opportunities.
This theme according to him also reminds everyone of their collective duty to eradicate discrimination and provide a nurturing environment for all children.
He disclosed that in line with this
within one year, his administration has constructed 2,300 classrooms, renovated over 700, and supplied desks to children in various schools.
“Furthermore, we are committed to the empowerment and development of our youth. Our Skill Acquisition Centers are equipping young people with valuable skills that enhance their employability and prepare them for a brighter future.
“By investing in our youth, we are investing in the future of Kaduna State.
Dear children, you are the future of our great state and nation. Your dreams and aspirations matter to us, and we are here to support you every step of the way. As we celebrate you today, we remember that every child deserves love, respect, and the opportunity to thrive.
“I want to seize this opportunity to call on all to join hands and celebrate the spirit of childhood. Let us celebrate the wonderful, unique, and precious individuals that our children are. Let us nurture their dreams and empower them to create a better world for themselves and for generations to come.
” Let us all work together to build a society where every child is included, protected, and given the chance to achieve his/her full potential.” He stated.
