By NAN
Erudite Growth and Advancement Foundation (ERGAF Africa), in collaboration with Mee and Cee Development Foundation, on Monday, 16th June 2025, commemorated the World International Day of the African Child with a powerful outreach to three Secondary Schools in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
The theme of the 2025 commemoration, “Child Rights-Based Budgeting in Nigeria: The Role of Policy Makers,” inspired a series of impactful activities that reached over 300 students across Junior Secondary School (JSS) Tunda Wanda, Government Secondary School (GSS) Tunda Wanda, and Raberto School, Wuse, Abuja.
Ms. Chy Ogamba, founder of Mee and Cee Development Foundation, shared her reflections during the event. She emphasized the importance of empowering children with policy knowledge and understanding the pivotal role they play in shaping the future.“
“We must take bold steps to ensure that young minds are equipped with the values and aspirations that will shape not just Nigeria, but Africa as a whole.
“Migration may take us anywhere in the world, but it is what we carry in our minds and hearts that will define our direction.”Highlights of the Day of the African Child 2025,” she said.
Key activities featured during the celebration included; Children’s Parliament Session hosted by Raberto School, Abuja, Spoken Word Performances by students of GSS Tunda Wanda, Special Broadcast on school safety and security, Debate Competition, Creative Arts and Fashion Runway, Master of Ceremony duties performed by the students, Cultural Dances showcasing Gbagyi, Igbo, Yoruba, Tiv, Hausa/Fulani traditions, and a unifying Unity Dance.
The activities, fully organized by ERGAF Africa and Mee and Cee Development Foundation, aimed to reawaken a sense of ownership among children over their future.
However, at the end of each activity, prizes including various educational materials were distributed, which included;Book Donations were made to school libraries to encourage a robust reading culture and Raberto School, Abuja, received the Child Rights Champion Award for outstanding participation.
Mrs. Mary Odegwa Yogh, a member of Mee and Cee Development Foundation, reminded participants that the day is more than a calendar event. It honors the courage of the Soweto schoolchildren of 1976 who marched for their right to education, as well as modern icons like Malala Yousafzai.“
“Today, we celebrate not just past bravery, but the potential of every African child—with a dream, a voice, and a right to a future,” she said.
Mrs. Vivian Amalu, Project Coordinator for Mee and Cee Development Foundation, brought the theme closer to home:“
‘Child Rights-Based Budgeting’ may sound like something for accountants or senators, but it concerns everyone—especially those who’ve studied under leaking roofs, with broken furniture, or in classrooms with no books or working computers.”
Ambassador Chibuzo Okereke, Executive Director of ERGAF Africa, said that,“A child rights-based budget means that when national resources are allocated, they must reflect children’s real needs—safe classrooms, well-stocked libraries, nutrition, and protection of dreams.
“Policymakers hold the magic wand of legislation and budget. If used wisely, they can build schools that are better, safer, and smarter. If ignored, students may be forced to stay home for months due to strikes or study in dilapidated classrooms during the rainy season.” he said.
As we mark this important day, let us reaffirm our commitment to turning its theme into meaningful action—for today’s children and tomorrow’s society. (NAN)
