The Minister of the Nigerian Federal capital territory, FCT, Malam Muhammad Musa Bello has called on the Nigerian children to imbibe the virtues of integrity, honesty, hard work, discipline and a deep sense of patriotism and love for country.
The Minister made the call in his message to mark this year’s 2021 children’s Day celebration in Abuja Nigeria’s capital.
Bello also reminded them that as national and global leaders of the future with the desire to ensure the greatness of Nigeria and also excel in their chosen fields of endeavour, it is essential that they embrace these character traits.
He also charged them to shun all acts that might negatively impact their future such as cultism, immoral behaviour, disrespect for authority, drug abuse, and online criminal activities amongst others.
He called on the children to follow the footsteps of the many positive role models in the country and not to be negatively influenced by social vices they encounter everyday especially via the social media.
The Minister also reminded young Nigerians that the road to success is paved with hard work, perseverance dedication and commitment.
“Any short cut taken will lead to failure and possibly regret”, he stated.
Bello also charged them to be patriotic at all times and love and honour Nigeria, calling on them to always work in harmony for the benefit of the country.
“You have no other country but Nigeria and as residents of the FCT, you have an obligation to live together in peace and harmony as envisaged by our founding fathers”, he added.
Theme: “The Effects of Covid-19 Pandemic on the Total Wellbeing of the Nigerian Child; the Way Forward”
Bello said that the pandemic indeed had a negative effect on the children as it disrupted their academic pursuits, deprived them of normal social interactions with their peers and even took the lives of some of their loved ones.
He praised the Nigerian children and youths for their resilience in the face of the challenges caused by the pandemic and reminded them that the pandemic was not yet over. He asked them to continue to adhere to the non-pharmaceutical protocols which include hand washing, facial covering and physical distancing.
The Minister then called on parents to always ensure the wellbeing and welfare of their children while assuring them of the commitment of the FCT Administration in meeting all its obligations to the Nigerian child.
Nneka Ukachukwu
