In observing the event of May 27, the Children's Day, the Executive Chairman of the Abakaliki Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Hon Stephen Ebere Nwogba has emphasized the need to respect the rights of the youngsters.
The Council Boss who stated this in his May 27th Message signed by himself, described children as bundles of happiness, and the future of the nation.
He said: "Children are bundles of happiness, gifts from God and the future of any Nation. They deserve the best and brightest future.
"Our children have the inalienable rights to life, the right to healthy living, the right to proper care by parents and family, the right to good education and the right to special health care.
"In these times of unhindered exposure where our values are rapidly being stripped away, we must protect, nurture and teach them right while providing an enabling environment for them to grow into well-rounded and upright individuals.
"It is noticeable that oftentimes these children fall prey to abuse. Child abuse which includes physical and emotional abuse of a child that includes child neglect, child sexual abuse, child trafficking and every other ill attitude meted on a child should be looked into by the different child Welfare agencies and the safety of every child.
"Therefore, we enjoin all parents to always evaluate the parents-child relationship since the family is regarded as the first and the core agent of socialization of a child and to make sure that every child does not suffer from any form of parental negligence as this would hurt them both in mental and emotional stability as a child.
"One of the major mandates of this Administration is to provide quality education for the children of Abakaliki local government and we are working towards achieving this through the revitalization, renovation of schools, employment of more teachers and provision of adequate learning facilities and school kits in the communities.
"Nevertheless, it takes a village to raise a child and we have our part to play, we must remember that our conduct as adults are a point of reference to these young budding minds and the precedence we set or leave behind is what they would imbibe.
"On behalf of the entire good citizens of the Abakaliki local government council, I conclude by conveying my warmest wishes on this auspicious occasion of the cChildren'sDay celebration. Let us celebrate with joy and enjoy the gift of childhood.
"Finally, let us collaborate with and assist our children to perform every required responsibility of making a beautiful society and a better nation tomorrow.
"May we continue to be good exemplary figures to the children around us.
"I wish all the young ones a Happy Children's Day celebration!"
