NOWA Celebrates Children’s Day With Renewed Commitment To Child Welfare

On May 27, 2024, the Naval Officers’ Wives Association (NOWA) celebrated Children’s Day with an event brimming with enthusiasm and a strong focus on the well-being and development of children.

Representing the National President, Mrs. Ijeoma Blessing Ogalla, the Vice President of NOWA, The Vice Mrs. Zainab Akpan, delivered a heartfelt welcome address that highlighted the significance of the day and the association’s dedication to nurturing the next generation.

Opening her speech, Akpan extended her appreciation to the distinguished guests, esteemed members of the association, teachers, and especially the children whose presence filled the occasion with joy and purpose.

She expressed deep gratitude for the visionary leadership of Mrs. Ijeoma Blessing Ogalla, whose guidance has continuously uplifted NOWA.

Reflecting on the essence of Children’s Day, Akpan quoted John F. Kennedy: “Children are the living messages we send to a time we will not see,” emphasizing that children represent both the present and the future. She noted that children bring light, laughter, and hope into our lives, reminding everyone of the simple joys that make life beautiful.

Akpan reiterated NOWA’s commitment to the welfare, protection, and empowerment of every child within their community and beyond, recognizing their vulnerability and the need for utmost care and support.

Akpan highlighted that the day’s programme included a variety of engaging and enriching activities designed to ignite imagination, stimulate creativity, and rejuvenate passions among the young attendees.

She urged everyone to remember that the celebration of Children’s Day extends beyond the event itself, serving as a call to action to champion children’s rights and create nurturing environments where they can thrive and achieve their full potential.

Adding to the day’s discussions, Mrs. Muolagbone Innocent gave a critical presentation on the rising issue of drug abuse among youth. She highlighted alarming statistics, noting that the population of drug abusers in Nigeria has increased from 5.6% in 2016-2017 to 14.6% today. She stressed the urgency of addressing this issue to prevent losing future generations to substance abuse.

Mrs. Innocent emphasized that while we live in a digital age, virtues such as respect and learning from elders remain paramount. She pointed out that about 3% of those abusing substances come from poor parenting environments, such as broken homes, where children seek quick solutions from outsiders, often leading them to substance abuse.

Concluding her address, Akpan extended a warm welcome to all attendees, wishing them a celebration filled with laughter, love, and cherished memories.

She reaffirmed NOWA’s unwavering commitment to the future of children and expressed her hope that the event would inspire continued efforts to support and empower the younger generation.

The Children’s Day celebration organized by NOWA underscored the association’s dedication to fostering a better future for children, ensuring they grow up in a supportive and loving environment.

The event was a testament to NOWA’s mission to champion the rights and voices of children, creating a brighter and more compassionate world for generations to come.