Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has reiterated the commitment of the state government to providing children in the state with an enabling environment, skills, and opportunities needed to achieve their dreams and aspirations.
The governor gave the assurance today at the 2024 Children’s Day Celebration themed, ‘Advocate for Children: Advocate for Policies and Actions that Protect and Support Children’s Well-Being’, held at the Police College Grounds, Ikeja.
Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, added that as Lagos rises, a future filled with abundant opportunities is unfolding and children should continue to dream big, strive for their goals, and they will surpass their imagination. He noted that the government will always advocate for their growth and ensure that no child is left behind.
The governor added that his administration is committed to helping the children develop skills for their future and provide paths to success based on what they are good at. “Our work is ongoing, and we are committed to giving you the tools and knowledge you need to succeed”, he said.
While acknowledging the roles of the private sector in his administration, Sanwo-Olu specifically companies like Nigerdock and Port and Terminal Multiservices Limited who have generously donated classrooms and other resources to schools in the state, stressed that these partnerships have helped the government to ensure that the children get the best education possible.
He further said that to help more children go to school, his administration has added nine new schools in busy and remote areas. These new schools, according to him, now have 4,588 students, with 2,310 girls and 2,278 boys, with additional improvement in many existing schools, where over 1,500 projects that include building, renovating, and providing new furniture.
Furthermore, through the Project Zero Programme, the government has helped 11,957 children who were out of school get back to their studies with all the supplies they needed. “Our new digital Situation Room helps us keep track of how well schools are doing and make sure everything is running smoothly,” the governor added, with security gadget-minded in some of the schools”, Sanwo-Olu averred.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Ali-Balogun stated that children are the future of the State and Nation. He implored them to continue to challenge themselves and excel both in academic and co-curricular activities as the State Government has put a lot of facilities at their disposal to effectively use to their advantage.
While commending the teachers for mentoring the children, he stated that they are indeed nation builders and salute their commitment, diligence, and dedication. He, also, commended the parents/guardians for always being a good role model to their children
The Commissioner therefore appreciated the State Governor and Deputy Governor for their passion and investment in the future of all children in Lagos State to ensure a level playing ground for all to nurture and grow their knowledge in pursuit of a better tomorrow.
CAPTIONS
Pic 1: L-R: Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture, Ms. Abisola Olusanya; Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat and Commissioner for Basic and Secondary, Mr. Jamiu Ali-Balogun at the Y2024 Children’s Day Celebration held at the Police College Grounds, Ikeja, on Monday.
Pic 3: Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat (5th Left) celebrating Children’s Day with Basic and Secondary School Students during the Y2024 Children’s Day Celebration held at the Police College Grounds, Ikeja, on Monday.
Pic 4: Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat (Middle) exchanging pleasantries with Children at the Y2024 Children’s Day Celebration, with him are Chairman, Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board, (LASUBEB) Mr. Hakeem Shittu (Right) and Commissioner for Basic and Secondary, Mr. Jamiu Ali-Balogun (Left) held at the Police College Grounds, Ikeja, on Monday.
