As we celebrate 2024 Children’s Day, APC Chieftain, Hon Obidike Chukwuebuka has said that many Nigerian children are still denied the fundamental right to education.
The stark reality is that millions of children in Nigeria are out of school, robbing them of their future and perpetuating cycles of poverty.
“Education is the bedrock of any society, and it’s unacceptable that many Nigerian children are being left behind. Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive, regardless of their background or circumstances.
“The consequences of being out of school are dire. Children who don’t receive an education are more likely to be trapped in poverty, vulnerable to exploitation, and lack the skills to compete in an increasingly complex world.
“But it’s not just the individual child who suffers; the entire nation pays the price. A generation of uneducated citizens means a workforce lacking in skills, innovation, and productivity, hindering Nigeria’s economic growth and development.
“So, what can be done? First, we must acknowledge that education is a fundamental right, not a privilege. We must prioritize funding for public schools, train and support teachers, and address the systemic issues that keep children out of school.
Second, we must address the social and cultural barriers that prevent children from attending school. This includes tackling poverty, gender inequality, and social norms that devalue education.”
Third, we must harness the power of technology to reach marginalized communities and provide alternative learning pathways for those who can’t access traditional schools.
Finally, we must hold our leaders accountable for ensuring that every Nigerian child has access to quality education. We must demand policies and programs that prioritize education and support our most vulnerable citizens.
On this Children’s Day, let’s make a commitment to ensure that no Nigerian child is left behind. Let’s work together to create a future where every child can learn, grow, and thrive. Education is a right, not a privilege – let’s make it a reality for all.” Obidike concluded
