Governor Uba Sani disapproves of child labor and trafficking – The Sun Nigeria

By Noé Ebije, Kaduna

Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani has disapproved of child labor and trafficking which he said remains prevalent in society.

Governor Sani said child labor and trafficking must be condemned in the strongest terms, adding that every child has the right to a safe and happy childhood, free from exploitation and abuse.

The governor stated this on Monday during the 2024 Children’s Day celebration in Kaduna.

Governor Sani, represented by his deputy, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, said his government was inclusive of every child to ensure that every child, regardless of their background, enjoys equal rights and opportunities in the State.

“We are committed to providing social protection to our children through relevant laws and initiatives.

“Our free and compulsory basic education policy ensures that every child, from Primary 1 to JSS 3, receives quality education without financial barriers.

“We have distributed free books and uniforms, and we are continually expanding our educational infrastructure by building and commissioning new schools and classrooms. ” He said.

The Governor also urges parents to make available to their daughters the human papilloma virus (HPV), which is beginning to occur in twenty-one states in Nigeria, including Kaduna,

He highlighted that HPV is one of the leading causes of cervical cancer, responsible for 95 percent of cases.

“Tragically, cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among Nigerian women and a leading cause of cancer death, especially among young women aged 15 to 44 years. It is second only to breast cancer.

I want to take this opportunity to urge all parents and guardians to support this vital vaccination program. Ensuring our girls are vaccinated against HPV is a crucial step in protecting their health and securing their future. Let us all commit to making this initiative a success.

“I am pleased to announce that, as part of this year's celebrations, UNICEF has announced an important health initiative. Twenty-one states in Nigeria, including Kaduna, will begin vaccinating girls aged 9 to 14 with the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.

“HPV is a leading cause of cervical cancer, responsible for 95 percent of cases. Unfortunately, cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among Nigerian women and one of the leading causes of cancer deaths, especially among young women aged 15 to 44 years. It is second only to breast cancer.

“I want to take this opportunity to urge all parents and guardians to support this vital vaccination programme. Ensuring our girls are vaccinated against HPV is a crucial step in protecting their health and securing their future. Let’s all commit to making this initiative a success.” He added.

Speaking on the theme of this year's celebration 'Inclusion, for every child', Governor Sani said this underscores the need to ensure that every child, regardless of their background, enjoys equal opportunities. rights and opportunities.

This theme according to him also reminds everyone of their collective duty to eradicate discrimination and provide a stimulating environment for all children.

He revealed that in accordance with this
in one year, his administration built 2,300 classrooms, renovated more than 700, and provided desks to children in various schools.

“In addition, we are committed to the empowerment and development of our youth. Our skills acquisition centers equip young people with valuable skills that improve their employability and prepare them for a better future.

“By investing in our youth, we are investing in the future of Kaduna State.
Dear children, you are the future of our great state and our great nation. Your dreams and aspirations matter to us, and we're here to support you every step of the way. As we celebrate you today, we remember that every child deserves love, respect and the opportunity to thrive.

“I want to take this opportunity to call on everyone to join hands and celebrate the spirit of childhood. Let us celebrate the wonderful, unique and precious individuals that our children are. Let's nourish their dreams and empower them to create a better world for themselves and for generations to come.

“Let’s all work together to build a society in which every child is included, protected and has the chance to reach their full potential. ” He stated.