A cross-section of children in Enugu State has appealed to the federal and Enugu State governments to prioritise their well-being, education, and safety.

According to them, they want to grow up in a country that truly values and invests in them.

They made this appeal on Tuesday in Enugu at the sidelines of the children’s day celebration.

The celebration, marked with a march past and cultural displays, is a moment to reflect on the needs and rights of the nation’s youngest citizens.

Speaking to journalists in separate interviews, Chioma Okafor, a student at the Government Secondary School in Enugu, expressed gratitude for witnessing the day, which she confessed was unique to her.

Miss Okafor asked the state government to protect the children from harm, abuse, and molestation by ensuring full implementation of the Child Rights Act.

“With increasing reports of abuse, child labour, and insecurity, we are demanding stronger protection laws and safer communities. We should be able to play and go to school without fear,” Miss Okafor added.

On her part, Chiamaka Ugwu, a 12-year-old student from Nsukka, requested the Enugu State government to provide better-equipped schools, trained teachers, and access to digital learning tools.

According to her, this would ensure teaching and learning activities were not only enhanced but also conducive for both the teacher and the student.

“We want libraries, computers, and clean classrooms. Every child should be in school, not on the streets,” she added.

Miss Ugwu commended Governor Peter Mbah for the attention his administration had given to education, urging him, however, to ensure basic education was free.

She pointed out that the government had declared basic education free in the state but alleged that teachers were still asking students to pay various fees.

Miss Ugwu maintained that this had forced children from poor families to drop out of school, which increased the number of out-of-school children in the state.

Valentine Udoka, a student of the College of Immaculate Conception (CIC) Enugu, regretted that many children still lack access to basic healthcare and proper nutrition.

Mr Udoka urged the government to improve primary healthcare services, provide free medical checkups in schools, and ensure healthy meals for all pupils.

(NAN)