Children in Abia State can look forward to a brighter future as the wife of the State Governor, Mrs. Priscilla Otti has declared her unwavering commitment to ensure the protection of their rights and welfare.
She made her commitment known to Abia children when she hosted them to 2024 special Christmas party at government house Umuahia on Thursday, December 20, 2024.
Affectionately referring to the children as “our little angels”, Mrs. Otti assured the children of God’s own state that she would be there for them, fighting for their rights and protecting them from all forms of abuses.
“These children are special and dear to our hearts. We are committed to championing strategic initiatives that enhance their growth, development, and well-being,” she said.
Mrs. Otti noted that Christmas season “reminds us of the importance of creating a world where every child feels loved, cherished, and protected”.
To this end, she restated her commitment to combat every negative practices that impede the growth of Abia children, adding that she would always be there to advocate for children’s rights and ensure that their voices are heard.
“We will not tolerate acts of violence and abuse against our children in Abia State. Child trafficking is a terrible crime that affects many children around the world. This is unacceptable, and we must work together to prevent it, ensuring our children are safe and protected.
“We must create awareness about the dangers of child trafficking, abuse, and molestation. Daily teaching our children about their rights and how to protect themselves is indeed a necessity,” Mrs. Otti said.
The Abia first lady stressed the importance of education as a fundamental right for all children, regardless of their background.
She stated that children are “the greatest treasure of parenthood”, hence parents must be alive to their responsibilities by being “active participants in (setting) the children’s moral compass”.
Mrs. Otti reminded parents that the hustle and bustle of daily life should not be at the expense of wholesome upbringing of children, adding that they should not “overlook the small moments that shape a child’s understanding of right and wrong”.
She counseled parents: “Take time to engage in meaningful conversations, lead by example, and create an environment that fosters kindness, empathy, and respect. Develop a relationship where your children can confide in you in the face of abuse.
“Let your children see you as their number one defender; with that, you will have succeeded in helping them build the confidence to stand up against abuse or report abusers”.
Earlier in her remarks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr Maureen Aghukwa, lauded Mrs. Otti for celebrating Abia children and standing for their welfare.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Ogechi Oguama, the Commissioner reiterated the ministry’s commitment to ensuring the review and full domestication of the Child Rights Act in Abia State for stronger protection of children.
The Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Ngozi Felix, said that parents should make it a point of duty to instill strong moral values in their children.
Lending his voice to the cause of Abia children, the Commissioner for Basic Education, Elder Goodluck Ubochi, said that Governor Alex Otti has put children’s development on the priority list through his education policy.
He pointed that the Governor has eeciedd to lay “a solid foundation for every child” by making basic education free, adding that Otti has also initiated interventions to remodel schools across the state.
It was a funfilled event that featured drama, dance, games, quizzes, and the distribution of gifts by Mrs. Otti, bringing smiles to the faces of Abia children, as she caressed them in motherly affection.
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