NAWOJ Admonishes Govt,Seeks Release of Chibok Girls

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has called on the Federal and state governments to pay more attention to the welfare of Nigerian children, as the nation celebrates Children’s Day.
A statement signed by Ifeyinwa Omowole , national president and Ladi Patrick Adams,national secretary said NAWOJ as a body is also using the occasion to pledge its support to governments at all levels to ensure that proper attention is paid to the welfare of children across the nation.
As a day set aside to recognize and promote the well being of the child as well a protect the child, government should consciously draft policies and laws that will protect our children.
The association also condemned child labour and child work in strong terms.
The statement said “We totally condemn the use of children as domestic helps without any form of education or skill acquisition.
“Our children should not be trafficked, kidnapped, uneducated, be victims of rape, abuse or assault.
“Our children deserve quality education, efficient health care services, food and shelter.“
NAWOJ said it was also concerned about the growing population of orphaned children who lost their parents as a result of insecurity and insurgence.
“These children deserve better life, government should pay particular attention to these category of children in the society.
“We, therefore, call on government to consciously make policies that would protect children and ensure they are well looked after by their parents or guardians.
“Government must also provide the basic amenities that are essential for the development of the child.
“Government must ensure that it does all within its power to squash all forms of insecurity and insurgence. ‘’
The association also used the occasion to call on all relevant government agencies involved in the protection of the rights of the child to intensify efforts at ensuring that no child’s right is violated or trampled upon.
“We are also calling on parents to set good examples for their children, as a parent, bring your children up in the way of righteousness and truth and our nation would be better.
“NAWOJ also uses this opportunity to again encourage the government and security operatives to continue in their quest to rescue the missing Chibok schoolgirls.
“They are children and they deserve to be free to celebrate with other children.