DELTA State Governor, Rt Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has charged parents to return to the traditional values of discipline, sacrifice and proper upbringing of children, warning that the growing neglect of parental responsibilities poses serious danger to society and the future of the nation.
The governor gave the charge at Urhobo House in Uvwiamughe at the Delta Central Children’s Day organized by Hon Stella Okotete in Ughelli North Local Government Area of Delta State.
The event tagged, “Raising Confident Voices, Inspiring Future Leaders” features Spelling Bee for primary schools and debate for junior and senior secondary schools drawn from the 8 local government of Delta central.
Governor Oborevwori, who was represented by Olorogun Ebenezer Okorodudu, the Executive Director of Projects at the DESOPADEC Board congratulated the students for distinguishing themselves in the competition, as he described them as the future leaders upon whom the destiny of Nigeria rests.
According to him, “I want to congratulate and commend all those representing various groups, our children who are the leaders of tomorrow. Without you, Nigeria cannot become the nation of tomorrow.” he stated.
The governor lamented the erosion of family values and the declining role of parents as the primary agents of socialisation, recalling that in the past, parents made enormous sacrifices to secure quality education and moral upbringing for their children.
“In those days, parents were willing to sacrifice all they had to train their children. They disciplined them and ensured they grew up with good values and character,” he said.
He observed that many parents now place undue pressure on their children to shoulder family responsibilities, thereby exposing them to criminality and other social vices.
“Instead of caring for the children, some parents now depend on them for survival. They ask them to provide money for feeding, rent and the upkeep of younger ones. This is wrong and dangerous.
The governor cautioned the students against bad company, drug abuse and criminal activities, stressing that crime only shortens life and destroys destiny.
“The day you decide to become a criminal, you have signed to die young and I am urging our children stay away from crime and drugs and remain useful to yourselves, your families, the state and the nation,” he advised.
“Education is not only about academics; it is also about character and good morals. You must dedicate yourselves to study, cultivate discipline and keep friends that add value to your lives,” he added.
He assured the participants that they were already successful by participating in the programme, irrespective of the final outcome, and encouraged them to continue striving for excellence and responsible leadership.
The governor further urged the students to remain committed to their studies and uphold good moral standards, noting that education transcends academic excellence.
On her part, the organizer of the maiden event , Hon Stella Okotete who stressed the importance of education, described it as the foundation for success and leadership in society.
She held that the event was designed to inspire learning, critical thinking and self-development among young people.
“The motivation behind the initiative was to create opportunities for children to develop intellectually and socially while celebrating Children’s Day in a meaningful way.
“We have given them tabs to improve their learning and reading skills, we donated white school boards to schools to ensure a more conducive learning environment for our children.
Okotete added that the event featured several learning and recreational activities, including craft sessions, games, and training in critical thinking and problem-solving skills aimed at preparing children for future challenges.
“We have a craft school where children were taught different levels of craftsmanship. We also created opportunities for them to develop problem-solving abilities and critical thinking skills so they can face the future from a better position,” he stated
“This is the first edition and we encountered some teething problems because of the crowd but hopefully by next year, it will definitely be bigger and better as we will secure a larger venue and improve on the organisation. Though bwe ensured that every child went home with a gift.”
“You can see children confidently spelling complex words and expressing themselves boldly. This shows that teachers are being equipped properly and the students are benefiting from quality training,
“There should be a stronger collaboration between families and society in raising children with good morals, discipline and social values.
“Training a child should not be left to parents alone. We must all work together to ensure our children, especially in the Niger Delta, develop the right behavioural values, respect and social skills needed to build a more peaceful and orderly society.
“Education is everything and once you are educated, you can conquer and rule the world. I encourage our children to pay attention to their academics, uphold respect and maintain good behaviour that will attract development and opportunities.” she added.
Dignitaries are the event include, Delta State Governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori ably represented by Olorogun Ebenezer Okorodudu, Engr David Ikutegbe, Hon Matthew Onojighofia Omonade, Olorogun Mrs Helen Edesiri Majemite,Chief Abel Opuidi, Chief Abovi Erute, Chief Collins Ezewu, Chief Goddey Odjumah both represented Senator Ede Dafinone amongst others
