By Hajara Usman
School children in Gombe State have called on the government and parents to take concrete action to eliminate child begging and hawking, describing these practices as significant obstacles that deprive children of education and a promising future.
Miss Ramlat Ahmed from Ilimi International stated this during an advocacy visit to the State Ministry of Women Affairs and Child Development, held as part of the 2024 World Children’s Day activities supported by UNICEF’s Bauchi field office,
She expressed deep concern. She highlighted the plight of children forced into street begging and hawking instead of attending school.
“Children have the right to pursue their dreams. Why do some parents prevent their children from going to school?” she questioned.
She further emphasised, “Almajiri children beg just to eat. They, too, are Nigerian children and deserve an education like me.”
In response, the State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Child Development, Asma’u Iganus, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to providing free education and supporting initiatives such as introducing school buses.
Iganus also said the proposed Child Protection Law, designed to protect children from abuse and neglect. She urged the students to remain focused on their studies and encouraged them to develop vocational skills to lead productive lives.
The theme for World Children’s Day 2024 is “Listen to the Future.”
