Lady Valerie Siminalayi Fubara, the wife of the Rivers State Governor, has emphasized that the most lasting legacy lies in investing in children to unlock their full potential for self-development and positive contributions to society.
During the 2024 Children’s Day celebrations in Port Harcourt, Lady Fubara called on relevant government agencies to intensify efforts in eradicating practices that promote child labour and trafficking.
After taking the salute during the official march past at the Sharks Football Club Stadium, Port Harcourt, Lady Fubara commended this year’s theme, “Investing in the Future Means Investing in our Children.”
She stressed the need to prioritize the development and well-being of children, noting that such investment extends beyond individuals and has ripple effects on society at large.
Lady Fubara stated, “Today, as we gather to celebrate Children’s Day, we are reminded of the priceless treasure we hold in our hands—the promise of our future embodied in the innocence, curiosity, and boundless potential of our children.
The theme of this year’s celebration underscores our responsibility towards future generations.”
She emphasized that investing in children goes beyond providing their basic needs, such as access to education and healthcare. It also entails creating an enabling environment that fosters their holistic development, including intellectual, social, emotional, and ethical aspects.
“Investing in our children means instilling in them the values of compassion, empathy, and responsibility for diversity, laying the foundation for a society built on inclusivity and understanding. It involves equipping them with knowledge and understanding to navigate a constantly evolving world,” Lady Fubara explained.
During a party organized for children at the Government House in Port Harcourt, with the theme “For Every Child, Every Right,” the Rivers First Lady highlighted the detrimental effects of child labour and trafficking on the healthy growth and well-being of children. She called for concerted efforts to address these issues.
“It is evident that more needs to be done to tackle issues related to our children’s growth and well-being, particularly child labour and trafficking, which are prevalent in our society today.
I urge relevant government agencies to intensify the campaign against such evil practices and ensure the safety of our children, who represent the hope of our nation and the potential leaders of tomorrow,” Lady Fubara expressed.
She urged parents not to succumb to pressures, whether from temporary economic challenges or societal influences, to engage in the inhumane practices of child labour or trafficking.
Lady Fubara emphasized that these practices are not only detrimental to humanity but also sinful.
Lady Fubara considered it a privilege to host children in the State on such significant occasions, as they represent the future hope of society.
She also highlighted the efforts of the Rivers State Government, under the leadership of her husband, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, in prioritizing children’s education.
