 Candidate for Edo Governorship election, Ms Patience Key, has called for all stakeholders’ commitment to a holistic approach to child development that leaves no child behind.){kind=link}
By Emmanuel Oloniruha
The People’s Redemption Party (PRP) Candidate for Edo Governorship election, Ms Patience Key, has called for all stakeholders’ commitment to a holistic approach to child development that leaves no child behind.
Key made the call in a statement in Abuja on Monday to mark this year Children’s Day.
She urged all stakeholders in the country to remember that “every child is a seed that, when nurtured, can grow into a tree that provides shade for many generations.’’
Key said that children deserved nothing less than a robust educational system, comprehensive healthcare, protection from harm, and the assurance of their voices being heard and valued.
She described children’s day as a day to reflect on the strides stakeholders had made in nurturing and empowering the children.
She said it was also a day to reaffirm the commitment to safeguarding children’s rights and fostering an environment where every child can thrive.
“Children are not only our future but also the most vivid reflection of our present society. They are the litmus test of our values, governance, and communal spirit.
“As we honour them today, we must ask ourselves: Are we providing them with the foundations they need to succeed?
“Are we building a legacy that will empower them for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow,’’ she asked?
The only female candidate in Edo election said that under her prospective leadership, she envision a transformative approach to child welfare—a commitment that stretches beyond rhetoric into tangible actions.
She listed her key initiatives for Child welfare in Edo to include education for all, healthcare access, safety and security, and youth empowerment.
She said that her administration when elected would be dedicated to drastically improving access to quality education for every child in Edo.
This, according to her, involves not only upgrading school infrastructures but also innovating curriculum to include digital literacy, environmental awareness, and civic education to prepare Edo children for the global stage.
She said her administration would also be committed to ensure that every child in Edo has access to basic healthcare services.
“Our administration plans to expand immunization coverage, nutritional supplements, and regular health screenings to ensure our children grow up healthy and strong.
“The safety of our children is paramount. We will strengthen child protection systems, enforce laws against child labour and abuse, and work closely with communities to create safe spaces for children to live and play.
“Recognising the potential of our older children, we will introduce mentorship programs, youth empowerment initiatives, and skill acquisition centres to equip them with the tools they need to build successful futures,’’ she said.
While wishing Nigeria’s children happy celebration, she said the day was to remind them that they hold the key to the future of the nation.
“We believe in your potential, we cherish your dreams, and we commit to creating the opportunities you need to achieve them,’’ she assure them.(NAN)