GOVERNOR BALA MOHAMMED URGES CHILDREN TO BE LAW-ABIDING, PROMISES CONTINUED SUPPORT FOR CHILD WELFARE
…As Bauchi Marks 2025 National Children’s Day Celebration
By Abdulwahab Muhammad Bauchí
Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the protection and empowerment of children, describing them as the future leaders whose welfare must remain a top priority in policy implementation.
Speaking at the 2025 National Children’s Day celebration held at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium in Bauchi, the Governor—represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Mohammed Auwal Jatau—said that his government would continue to design and implement policies that promote child development, education, health, and safety.
He urged children across the state to be law-abiding, shun all forms of social vices, and dedicate themselves to their studies and moral upbringing, stressing that the future of the state and country lies in their hands.
"This day reminds us of our duty as leaders, parents, and guardians to ensure that our children grow in a safe, secure, and enabling environment. Our children must be protected from all forms of abuse and intimidation. They must be supported to dream big, live free of fear, and become responsible adults," the Governor stated.
He emphasized the importance of this year’s theme, “Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bully-Free Generation,” as timely and reflective of the global concern for children's safety, especially in light of increasing cases of bullying both offline and online. He disclosed that the state is currently working on policies to tackle cyberbullying and promote responsible digital behavior among youths.
The Governor further directed the State Ministry of Women Affairs and Child Development to collaborate with relevant agencies in developing and executing programmes that will address issues such as child abuse, cybercrime, child labour, child trafficking, and abduction.
Governor Bala Mohammed promised that his administration will continue to provide platforms and tools to empower children, support victims of abuse, and encourage a culture where children and their peers can speak up against bullying and harmful practices without fear.
Earlier in her remarks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Child Development, Hajiya Zainab Baban Takko, commended Governor Bala Mohammed for his unwavering support towards the welfare of children and women in the state. She described the governor as a true advocate of inclusive governance and called for sustained commitment to child protection.
She also urged children to respect their parents, teachers, and leaders, avoid acts of violence, drug abuse, and misconduct, while embracing hard work, patriotism, and honesty as their guiding values.
The Children’s Day event was marked by colourful match-pasts, cultural performances, and presentation of awards to outstanding schools in various categories, adding fun and festivity to a day of serious reflection on the rights and future of the Nigerian child.
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