Nov 18, 2008 - The World Day For The Prevention Of Child Abuse
Seven years ago, 19th of November was declared as the World Day for the Prevention of Child Abuse by the Women’s World Summit Foundation. The decision to set aside this day every year was in recognition of the increasing cases of child abuse and its negative effects on the future of our children who are the leaders of tomorrow.
Children as we all know are precious gifts of God and as such the society has the responsibility to give every care necessary to these children and ensure that they grow up to become responsible citizens that we all will be proud of Child abuse is evil and a crime against humanity when we consider its negative consequences on the larger society.
Child abuse comes in various forms such as denying a child access to education, child labour, child trafficking, and sexual exploitation among others. A child that is made to suffer any of these forms of abuse will grow up with low self esteem and become a liability and even a threat to the society. For these reasons we must all fight against child abuse and not leave it to the government alone.
In Lagos State, the government has continued to ensure that every child is given the opportunity to grow and realise his or her potentials irrespective of socio-economic background. The Child Right Law which is being simplified for the proper understanding of the children, the distribution of free textbooks, reconstruction of classrooms, the free medical care for children up to 12 years of age are part of the steps taken by this administration to demonstrate its commitment to secure a brighter and rewarding future for our children.
These efforts will however not yield the desired result if we fail to play our role of being a watchdog and speaking out against child abuse in our neighbourhoods and communities. We must never feel unconcerned whenever we see a child being treated unjustly. If we cannot prevent or stop it, let us ensure that we report such acts of abuse to the appropriate authorities.
To all the children here today, I congratulate you and also commend your involvement in this year’s campaign against child abuse through the sensitization walk. You must understand that the Child Right Law is about your future. It is also giving you the opportunity to grow and develop so as to become responsible and successful adults. It is about protecting you against exploitation and other situations that will make you not to achieve your dreams.
Children, you have to be hardworking, study well and with determination you can become successful in life, a source of joy and pride to your parents and your generation.
I commend the leadership and staff of the Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation for their commitment towards protecting the rights of our future leaders.
Congratulations once again to all particularly our children on this year’s celebration of the world day for the Prevention of Child Abuse.
God bless you all.
Her Excellency
Mrs. Abimbola Fashola
The First Lady of Lagos State