|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
Speaker, Bauchi State House of Assembly, Hon Suleiman with school children to mark the 2023 Children’s Day
By Akanji Olowolodu, Bauchi
The Chairman, Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, Abubakar Y Suleiman has called that the Children’s Day, should be used to unite Nigerians in dedication to creating a brighter future for every child in the country.
Abubakar Y Suleiman in a goodwill message to mark the 2023 Children’s Day Celebration lamented that “Today, as we celebrate the joy, innocence, and boundless potential that resides within each and every one of you, we must also acknowledge the harsh realities that children face, particularly in developing countries like ours and within the boundaries of Bauchi State.”
According to him,”Even in this year, 2023, many children in Nigeria confronted formidable challenges. Numerous schools lack proper infrastructure, including classrooms, furniture, and learning materials. Teachers often face inadequate training and limited resources to provide a nurturing and effective learning environment.”
He stressed that,”Many children lack access to proper medical facilities, resulting in a higher risk of preventable diseases and inadequate healthcare support.”
According to him, “Immunization coverage is often insufficient, leaving children vulnerable to deadly illnesses. Malnutrition remains a persistent issue, leading to stunted growth and hindered cognitive development.”
Abubakar Y Suleiman who is the Speaker of Bauchi State House of Assembly added that,”Many children are forced into exploitative work instead of being in school, robbing them of their right to a proper childhood and education. They are often subjected to hazardous conditions, long hours, and meagre wages, depriving them of their innocence and hindering their potential.”
He however said that,”commendable efforts have been made to ameliorate the aforementioned challenges by the Bauchi State government under the stellar stewardship of His Excellency, Sen Bala Mohammed, the Executive Governor of Bauchi State, with the support of the House of Assembly where I am humbly first among competent equals.
Bauchi State House of Assembly remains resolute in the total elimination of these challenges and in protecting the rights and well-being of every child.”
“We pledge to continue prioritizing resources to improve education infrastructure, train and empower teachers, and provide essential learning materials. We will advocate for the establishment of more healthcare facilities, increase immunization coverage, and implement comprehensive nutrition programs to combat malnutrition,” he said.
The Conference of Speakers Chairman however said that,”overcoming these challenges and fostering an environment where every child can reach their full potential is possible through a unity of purpose by all stakeholders.”
“Furthermore, we are committed to enforcing legislation that protects children from exploitative labour practices and advocating for policies that prevent forced marriage, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to grow, learn, and thrive.
Bauchi State House of Assembly recognizes the immense value of every child’s dreams and aspirations,” the Speaker concluded.
