From Mika’il Tsoho, Dutse
In a symbolic gesture marking the 2024 World Children’s Day, children in Jigawa State, supported by UNICEF, assumed control of the State Assembly to advocate for their rights and future.
The session, presided over by the Children’s Speaker, Jamila Aliyu Abdulkadir, deliberated on critical issues such as child protection laws, improving girls’ education, and reducing the number of out-of-school children in the state.
Addressing the assembly, Speaker Jamila called on the government, parents, and stakeholders to support children in achieving their dreams, emphasising their role as the future leaders of Jigawa and Nigeria.
“We urge everyone to help us realise our dreams and make Jigawa a beacon of progress,” she stated.
UNICEF Nigeria, in a statement celebrating the event, commended the children for their participation and urged them to focus on education and character development.
“You are the future leaders. Dedicate yourselves to your studies and avoid negative influences,” the statement read.
World Children’s Day, observed annually on 20 November, celebrates the adoption of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989.
The theme for 2024, “Listening to the Future,” highlights the importance of children’s voices in shaping a better tomorrow.
