By Sunday Daramola.
As the nation commemorates Children’s Day, an APC bigwig, Dr Ayodeji Ayodele Dada has called for increased investment in children’s future.
Speaking on the theme for this year’s celebration “Investing in children’s future, highlighting the significance of providing them with quality education, healthcare, and protection” the community leader emphasized the importance of providing children with access to quality education, healthcare, and nutrition.
He urged stakeholders, including government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and individuals, to prioritize children’s welfare.
“As leaders, we have a duty to ensure children have access to quality education, healthcare, and nutrition, and protection from violence.”
“We must also prioritize their welfare and ensure they have the necessary tools to succeed. Our children are the future leaders of this nation, and it is our responsibility to empower them.” Dr Dada remarked.
The Orin Ekiti born US based Philanthropist highlighted the need for collective efforts to create a society that values and protects children’s rights, saying investing in children’s future is crucial for building a virile and prosperous nation.
Dr Dada noted that by providing access to quality education and healthcare, ensuring children’s protection from violence and exploitation and supporting their development through nutrition and other essential services were some of the ways to invest in their future
The APC stalwart also commended Governor Biodun Oyebanji for prioritizing children’s welfare, particularly through the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) program, an initiative, supported by the World Bank.
“Undoubtedly the AGILE initiative has helped Promote the Girl Child Education, through the provision of laptops, educational materials, and promoting hygiene, that seeks to reduce early marriage, teenage pregnancy, and school dropouts among girls” he said.
Dr Dada also applauded the inclusivity policies of the state government, which he said had brought a sigh of relief for children with disabilities.
He mentioned the establishment of the Office of Special Education and appointment of Mrs. Adetoun Agboola as Special Adviser to promote inclusive education and the establishment of therapy Clinics to address the needs of children with disabilities among others facilities as incentives provided by the government
The APC chieftain urged parents to support the state government’s efforts by ensuring children in the state are well prepared for a better society.
