UNICEF Reiterates Commitment To Children’s Rights In Enugu

 United Nations International Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has reiterated its commitment to ensure that all children have rights to voice their opinions and areas of need. 

Mrs Juliet Chiluwe, Chief of Field Office, UNICEF Enugu who stated this on at the weekend during the commemoration of 2023 Nigerian Children’s Day in collaboration with Enugu State Ministry of Gender and Social Development held in Enugu, saying all children must be heard and listened to. 

UNICEF

She said, “It is the duty of duty bearers and caregivers of children to nurture them and help them actualize this right. 

“UNICEF’s mandate is to assist children everywhere actualize this right. By doing so, this year UNICEF Enugu Field office in collaborating with Ministry of gender and social development and members of Enugu State’s Children’s Parliament to organize a one-day symposium to help hold duty bearers accountable towards the fulfilment of their rights. 

“Annually, the Children’s Day is commemorated in honor of children by many countries. This year, the International Children’s Day is celebrated with theme: “The state of the Nigerian children today: Proper parenting for value orientation and national consciousness”, providing an ample opportunity to conscientize stakeholders on importance of proper parenting of children and for children to add a voice. 

“Our children, young and beautiful remain our most cherished God’s gift to the world, with their innocent smiles and carefree spirits, they steal the hearts of many. It doesn’t matter the sex and physical state or condition of the child, they are uniquely made. These children are the future of many generations. Little wonder this day is set aside to celebrate them 

“International Children’s Day was first proclaimed in Geneva during the World Conference on Child Welfare. Since 1950, it is celebrated on June 1 in most Communist and post-Communist countries. World Children’s Day is celebrated on the 20th of November to commemorate the Declaration of the Rights of the Child by the UN General Assembly on 20 November 1959. In some countries, it is Children’s Week and not Children’s Day. 

“In Nigeria, Children’s Day celebrations provides kids an opportunity to immerse themselves in several social activities expressing themselves in any way they can among their peers.