Abuja residents seek safer environment for children

Abuja residents seek safer environment for children
By Talatu Maiwada
Safety
Abuja, June 1, 2018 (NAN) Some parents and children in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, have called on families to provide a safe and healthy environment for the development of their children.
They made the appeal in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Saturday against the backdrop of the Global Day for Parents celebration.
The respondents said children could only arrive and maximise their potentials in a healthy and friendly atmosphere.
The Global Day of Parents proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012, is observed every June 1, and aims at paying tribute to parents around the world, for their sacrifices and commitments.
Miss Chinoye Okafor, Head Teacher, Claret International School, Abuja, appreciated parents for their unique ability and lifelong sacrifice towards nurturing, mentoring and educating their children.
Okafor however advised parents to provide a safe and healthy environment in the upbringing and development of the wards.
She said children should be protected against sexual abuse, child abuse, battering, act of hawking and exposure from social vices in the society.
Mr Suleiman Tauheed, a father and businessman, emphasised the essential role of parents in educating their children, providing basic needs of shelter, food and clothing while ensuring their protection.
He advised parents not to limit their children in relating and associating with other children, but encourage them to explore life in a healthy way.
Mrs Deborah Menegbe, a Guidance and Counselling Officer at African International School, Abuja, said the development of a child’s personality depended on his or her parents.
Menegbe said it was important to honor parents for the hard work they do of raising the next generation, to become responsible citizens in their communities and country at large.
She encouraged parents to nurture their children in the fear of God, ensuring they grow up in an atmosphere of peace, happiness, love and understanding, which would encourage wholesome personality development.
Ms Aisha Bello, a 10-year-old pupil, said her parents are the best in the world, while celebrating them for providing her basic needs and giving her education.
Mr John Auta, a 15-year-old student of Mabushi Secondary School, Abuja, also appreciated his parents for giving birth to him and providing his needs.
However, Auta called on parents to provide a safe environment for their children especially the girl-child because of their vulnerability. (NAN)
TIM/AO/MST
Edited by Muhammad Suleiman Tola