By Zainab Oyekan
Mrs Helen Mutfwang, the wife of Plateau Governor has called for a collective stand against bullying, violence, and all forms of child abuse.
Mrs Mutfwang made the call on Wednesday in Jos to commemorate the Children Day Celebration in the state.´
She said that every child must feel safe, valued, and empowered to dream big.
The governor’s wife described children as precious gifts of God and the future of the state and nation.
“we must all be reminded of our collective responsibility to protect, nurture, educate, and empower every child, “ said the governor’s wife.
Mrs Mutfwang noted that the annual observance offered an opportunity to reflect on building a society where every child felt safe, valued, heard, and inspired.
She added that this year’s theme, “Stand Up, Speak Up: Building a Bullying-Free Generation,” is timely and apt.
She called on parents, teachers, government institutions, community leaders, and children themselves to take a firm stand against all forms of bullying, intimidation, violence, and discrimination that threaten children’s wellbeing and development.
Mrs Mutfwang said that the “Time is Now” administration of the governor had consistently demonstrated commitment to child welfare, protection, and development, citing the successful inauguration of the Plateau Children’s Parliament.
According to her, the parliament brought together children from all 17 local government areas to debate issues, propose solutions, and engage government on education, health, safety, and overall wellbeing, ensured that children’s voices were heard and respected.
She said that through the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), the government was expanding access to free, quality basic education, while investing in healthcare facilities and services to improve children’s access to essential support.
she declared a zero-tolerance stance against child trafficking, child labour, molestation, sexual abuse, and all forms of exploitation, with the Ministry of Women Affairs, Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission, and other agencies strengthening child protection mechanisms and ensuring justice for victims.
Mrs Mutfwang urged children to believe in themselves, embrace discipline and integrity, while calling for stronger collaboration among traditional rulers, religious bodies, development partners, and civil society to address child abuse, street begging, drug abuse, bullying, and the challenge of out-of-school children.
She appreciated teachers and caregivers for shaping children’s character and future, and appealed to parents to provide nurturing homes that teach integrity, compassion, respect, tolerance, hard work, and unity as the first place of learning.
“As we celebrate today, let us renew our commitment to building a safer, more inclusive, child-friendly society where every child can live, learn and grow without fear, intimidation, abuse or discrimination,” she said,
The governor’s wife wished the children joy, wisdom, good health and a future of greatness. NAN
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