By Millicent Ifeanyichukwu
Celine Lafoucriere, Chief of UNICEF, Lagos Field Office, led celebrations of the World Children’s Day (WCD) at the Lagos State House of Assembly (LAHA) complex, Alausa, highlighting critical issues affecting children across the state.
Speaking on Thursday at the WCD Policy Dialogue with Legislators & Arts Exhibition by Children, Lafoucriere enjoined the lawmakers to prioritise children’s rights, including their right to identity, protection, education, health, and nutrition.
The 2025 theme for World Children’s Day is ‘My Day, My Right’, a global day of action for children usually observed Nov. 20.
It marks the anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child and serves as a call to action for schools, communities, and institutions to engage with and support children.
She encouraged lawmakers to turn children’s stories into meaningful action, highlighting that the legislature held the key to shaping brighter futures for every child.
“You are in the House of Assembly, where laws, budgets, and priorities are decided. You have the opportunity to positively transform children’s lives today.
“The World Children’s Day allows us to raise awareness, mobilise support, and amplify children’s voices, ensuring their concerns are heard and their rights fully respected.
“Every child you invest in becomes a healthier, smarter, more productive adult. UNICEF remains committed to supporting Lagos State in ensuring that the rights of every child is fulfilled.
While commending the state’s strong performance in birth registration, she also emphasised the importance of collaboration,
“World Children’s Day serves as a reminder that every child deserves holistic support to thrive.
“Regardless of their socio-economic background, and that governments, organisations, and communities must work together to protect children’s rights.
“We work closely with the Lagos State Government, House of Assembly, ministries and commissioners to ensure that the rights of children are respected and safeguarded,” she said.
She noted that many children are still out of school, saying that the UNICEF worked closely with state authorities to remove barriers, enhance access, and promote inclusive, quality learning environments that ensured every child could thrive.
Lafoucriere noted that child security must extend beyond classrooms, adding that protection included daily life, homes, and communities.
She stressed that the Nigerian government must ensure safety remained a guaranteed right for all children.
The UNICEF officer reaffirmed, “UNICEF’s engagement with Lagos State reflects our commitment to creating a safe, nurturing, and inclusive environment where every child can learn, play, and reach their full potential.”
In his response, the Leader of LAHA, Temitope Adewale, noted that the state government was making significant efforts to create an enabling environment for children.
He assured that the issues raised would be thoroughly reviewed and addressed accordingly.
In his remark, the Chairman, House Committee on Youths and Social Development, Lagos State House of Assembly, Mr Abiodun Orekoya, applauded UNICEF for its unwavering commitment to children.
He noted that UNICEF’s continuous support was helping to secure a brighter, more promising future for every child.
He also encouraged the children to envision themselves as future members of the House of Assembly, urging them to stay away from drugs, so they could succeed, excel, and fulfil their true potential in life.
The occasion had children from various schools across the state and members of LAHA in attendance.
Also, the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Pharm. Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, alongside other officials of the Lagos State House of Assembly.
The speaker of the 7th Assembly of Lagos State Children’s Parliament, Abdulsalam Anjolaoluwa led the children into sessions where they expressed their expectations in the areas of education, sanitation, health, innovations, amongst others.
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