Stephen Angbulu
The First Lady, Aisha Buhari, on Saturday, in Abuja, urged children to be patriotic by shying away from drug abuse.
She said this during an event organised by the Presidential Transition Council to commemorate the Children’s Day celebration at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja.
Mrs. Buhari said as a party to the United National Convention on the Rights of Children and the African Union Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, Nigeria passed the Child Rights Act (2003) to protect Children nationwide.
She, therefore, urged children to be contributors to nation-building by staying away from drug abuse.
Mrs. Buhari who was represented by Salamatu Gbajabiamila, wife to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, said, “On this joyous day the nation recognises and celebrates with you by supporting the Child Rights Act, and encourage you to be good citizens of this country.
“We as parents, brothers, and sisters say we love you. Be assured that you mean so much to us and the nation is proud of you as future leaders.”
“We, therefore, encourage you to be good children. Listen to your parents and teachers more and always do what is right to make your country better.
“We want you to support your nation by shying away from drugs. Be disciplined and avoid any form of misconduct either at school or at home to make our country better,” she added.
The first lady encouraged Nigerian children to be committed to learning and acquire useful knowledge and skills to build their future and that of Nigeria.
She said by doing this, that they can support the incoming administration to serve Nigeria better.
Earlier, the President, Major General Muhammadu (retd.), hosted about 40 children at the Council Chamber of the State House.
They pupils were pciked from various primary and secondary schools across the country and led by the Minister of Women Affairs, Paulen Tallen, and the Minister of the FCT, Mohammed Aliyu.
Following the UN resolution, the Federal Government set aside every May 27 to honour and celebrate children as critical stakeholders in national development, to raise awareness about their welfare, and protect their rights.
The day also provides an opportunity for children to make their desires known to the FG.
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