Children’s Day was first established in 1954 as Universal Children’s Day and is celebrated on Nov 20 each year to promote international togetherness, awareness among children worldwide, and improving children’s welfare.
The 2024 Theme is ‘Listen to the Future.’ This year’s theme highlights the importance of listening to children’s aspirations, ideas, and dreams for the future. It encourages promoting their right to participation and empowering them to shape the world they envision.
As known, millions of children across the world grapple with challenges ranging from access to quality education to malnutrition and violence. Experts and stakeholders are urging the government to prioritize child welfare as part of its 2025 development goals.
However, despite significant progress, the situation for Nigerian children remains dire. According to UNICEF, approximately 10.5 million Nigerian children are out of school, a figure compounded by insecurity in parts of the country.
An executive director at UNICEF, Catherine Russell says “World Children’s Day is not just a celebration; it’s a call to action “
She harped the importance of prioritizing children’s voices, stating: “It reminds us of our collective responsibility to listen to children, value their ideas, and empower them to actively participate in decisions that affect their lives.”
Recall that this day also commemorates the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child, a landmark treaty that has shaped global efforts to uphold children’s rights to survival, education, protection, and participation.
According to Russell, “Hearing their voices is a fundamental aspect of honoring their rights. Their perspectives have the power to inspire change and pave the way for a better, more inclusive future for all.”
UNICEF also stressed the vital role of parents and caregivers in nurturing environments where children feel valued, supported, and encouraged to express themselves freely.
In Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu recently reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to addressing these issues, promising transformative policies to enhance education and healthcare access for children.
The importance of education as a tool for change was highlighted during a Children’s Parliament session in Abuja. Rahama Waziri, the Speaker, emphasized, “Education is the gateway to opportunities and the foundation for a prosperous society.” She called for modernized school facilities, digital literacy, and curriculum reforms to prepare children for the tech-driven future.
Experts also stress the need for addressing malnutrition, which affects over 35% of Nigerian children under five. Sylvia Sarki, Operations Manager at Across Atlantic Development, urged for improved policies targeting food security and healthcare, noting:
“Without proper nutrition, children cannot reach their full cognitive and physical potential.” Advocacy groups are also pushing for better implementation of the Child Rights Act across all states.
Violence against children remains a significant concern. Reports by UNICEF show that one in four girls and one in 10 boys in Nigeria experience sexual violence before the age of 18. International IDEA’s Chidinma Ilechukwu emphasized the need for legal frameworks that protect children from abuse and neglect. “Every child must be safeguarded and empowered to thrive,” she stated.
As part of the International Children’s Day celebrations, schools and organizations across Nigeria are engaging in **cultural activities**, debates, and exhibitions aimed at showcasing the creativity and potential of young minds. These events are reminders of the need to nurture the unique talents of every child.
Experts recommend increased investment in technical and soft skills development, particularly as the world moves towards a knowledge-based economy. “Preparing children for the future means equipping them with adaptability and problem-solving skills,” said a representative from the International Labour Organization.
Moreover, inclusive healthcare is critical to safeguarding children’s futures. The Tinubu administration has promised to strengthen child health services by expanding immunization programs and improving access to basic medical care. This pledge comes as part of a broader strategy to tackle child mortality, which remains one of the highest in the world.
As the international community reflects on this year’s theme, there is a consensus that sustainable progress requires a holistic approach—integrating education, nutrition, safety, and healthcare. Parents, communities, and governments must work in tandem to ensure that every Nigerian child has the opportunity to thrive.
World Children’s Day 2024 is more than a celebration; it’s a clarion call to action. As Rahama Waziri aptly put it: “Through children’s development, we envision and achieve a brighter tomorrow.” The Nigerian government has the tools and strategies to make this vision a reality by 2025, but only through sustained commitment and collaboration.
