By Sumaila Ogbaje
The President, Defence and Police Officers Wives Association (DEPOWA), Mrs Oghogho Musa, has charged parents to create an environment conducive for their children to grow and make impact in the society.
Musa gave the charge at the 2024 Children’s Day Celebration organised by DEPOWA for the children and wards from the military and police Nursery, Primary and Secondary Schools in Abuja.
She said the day was a reminder of the importance of nurturing, guiding and empowering the younger ones to grow into compassionate, curious and innovative individuals.
Musa quoted Nelson Mandela as saying “History will judge us by the difference we make in everyday lives of children”.
She urged every parent and guardian to create a safe environment free from anger and conflict and being great mentors to our children.
“In celebrating the joys of childhood, we must acknowledge the challenges and struggles that many children face.
“Let us renew our commitment to providing a safe, supportive and inclusive environment for all children to thrive,” she said.
DEPOWA President also challenged the children to take confidence of the incredible potentials and limitless opportunities that each and every one of them hold within.
According to her, children are the future leaders, innovators and change makers of our world.
“Remember to cherish your childhood, embrace your dreams and always believe in yourselves.
“We celebrate your curiosity, creativity and boundless energy.
“May this day, be filled with laughter, fun, and memories that will last a life time. Keep exploring, learning and growing.
“You are future leaders and change makers of tomorrow,” she added.
Musa appreciated the First Lady and Founder of Renewed Hope Initiative, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, for her motherly inspiration and continuous guidance.
She said the first lady had taken the lead in celebrating the children through various forms of supports.
She also thanked the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, for his invaluable support and encouragement for being the driving force of the mission and vision of DEPOWA.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event involved match past by the various schools, cultural display as well as spelling and dancing competition among other fanfare.
The result of the competitions showed that Obideyi David from POWA School emerged winner, while Gandu Kryet from DEPOWA School came second and Imaam Aderukan from NAOWA School came third.
In Match Past, Army Day Secondary School, Mogadishu Cantonment came first, while NOWA Secondary School came second and NAFOWA Secondary School came third.
(NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA)