By Rhoda Godwin
Wife of the Bayelsa State Governor, Dr. Mrs. Gloria Diri, has reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to promoting and supporting the total well-being of children across the state.
Speaking during the 2026 Nigeria Children’s Day celebration held at Government House, Yenagoa, Dr. Diri said the welfare, growth and development of children remain a priority of the Prosperity Administration.
The First Lady, who was represented by the Commissioner for Women, Children Affairs, Empowerment and Social Development, Hon. Joahna Gigi, said the government had introduced policies and relevant laws aimed at addressing child care, support, abuse, abandonment and gender equality.
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She noted that through the Ministry of Women, Children Affairs, Empowerment and Social Development, with support from the judiciary, incidents of child abuse, sexual violence and violations of children’s rights are being tackled.
Dr. Diri also highlighted efforts in the education sector, including the establishment of model schools with improved infrastructure, teacher training and the promotion of extracurricular activities to create a conducive learning environment for children.
According to her, similar interventions have been extended to the health sector through the provision of well-equipped primary healthcare centres, simplified medical procedures and routine immunisation and vaccination programmes for children across the state.
She said the initiatives demonstrate government’s determination to protect children and secure a sustainable future where no child is left behind.
The First Lady advised children to take their studies seriously, avoid social vices and embrace values such as hard work, discipline, patience, compassion and obedience to parents and constituted authority.
She further stressed that raising children requires intentional efforts from parents and guardians, noting that properly nurtured children contribute to stronger families and a better society.
Dr. Diri added that parents must remain available and actively involved in the upbringing of their children to ensure they grow into responsible adults.
The celebration featured several activities by schoolchildren, including a quiz competition based on the 2026 Children’s Day theme, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” Izon language presentations, cultural dances and games.
