Nasarawa Speaker Pledges Legislative Support for Child Rights, Education

On the occasion of International Children’s Day 2025, the Speaker of the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Dr Danladi Jatau has reaffirmed the commitment of the 7th Assembly to enacting laws and passing resolutions aimed at safeguarding children’s rights and promoting their education.

In a statement issued by his Press Secretary, Jibrin Gwamna, the Speaker called for urgent action to end child labour, the rising number of out-of-school children, street begging, hawking, and other practices detrimental to children’s well-being.

He emphasised the need for joint efforts among stakeholders to tackle all forms of abuse and violence against children, noting that such action is vital to national development.

“The House under my leadership will continue to support legislative measures that protect the rights of children and promote their overall welfare,” the statement read.

Dr Jatau congratulated children across the state on the occasion and called for the provision of quality education to enable them to build a brighter future and contribute meaningfully to society.

Describing children as special gifts from God, he urged parents, guardians, and relevant authorities to provide the necessary support, love, education, and moral guidance to Nigerian children, thereby helping to build an equitable society.

The Speaker expressed concern over the increasing rate of out-of-school children, child labour, street hawking, and begging and reiterated the need for collective responsibility in addressing the menace.

“If parents, guardians, stakeholders, as well as individuals and groups, join hands with the government in tackling child abuse, child labour, and other forms of violence against children, it would go a long way in promoting peace, unity, and societal development,” he stated.

He described education as the most effective instrument for combating poverty and social vices and urged families to prioritise the education of their children as a lasting legacy.

Dr Jatau also reaffirmed the Assembly’s readiness to support all government policies and programmes relating to children and to enact laws that protect their rights and improve their welfare.

He encouraged parents and guardians to reflect on the significance of the day and act in the best interest of the children and society as a whole.