Abakaliki, May 27, 2024 – Gov. Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi on Monday banned all activities that inhibit mental intellectual growth and advancement of children in the state.
Nwifuru, represented by Mr Mose Odunwa, the Speaker, State House of Assembly, announced the ban during the 2024 Children’s Day celebration in Abakaliki.
The governor said, “Today, I reiterate our zero tolerance to hawking and social exploitation.”
He assured that the administration was committed to providing safe nurturing and supportive environment for all children to strive.
He said that his commitment was in line with the 2024 theme of his administration, “investing in our future means investing in our children.”
“Again all battering and servitude has been banned.
“Anyone cut in the act and abusing the rights of children will be treated accordingly to the law,” Nwifuru said.
He said his administration had implemented various initiatives to improve education, health care and child welfare.
The Wife of the Governor, Mrs Mary-Maudline Nwifuru, decried the persistent child labour practices in the state and country.
She said more effort should be channeled towards pulling more people out of poverty and ensuring the rights of every child.
She said, “Every child deserves access to quality education, healthcare and a safe and secure environment to live and thrive.
“We should invest in these key areas of development for them and future of our society.”
She urged parents to continue to give the best to their children and raise responsible citizens of the country.
Mrs Nwifuru said her pet project, “Better Health for Rural Women and Internally Displaced Persons Foundation”, sponsored 100 children for scrotal hernia surgery as her contribution to the wellbeing and development of children.
Mrs Felicia Nwankpuma, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, pledged to continue to engage local and international development partners to increase their readiness in providing support and fund for children growth.
Victor Obasi, Speaker, Ebonyi Children’s Parliament, suggested that adequate protection and wellbeing would be achieved through targeted legislation, implementation and enforcement of child rights law of 2010 and other related matters.
The event featured the commencement of free vaccination against Human Papilloma Virus to girl child between nine and 10 years.
