By Victoria Okpanachi
Kogi First Lady, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo, has reaffirmed government’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of children across the state.
Hajia Sefinat, who stated this during the 2025 Children’s Day celebration in Lokoja, described the day as one of joy and hope.
According to her, “Children’s Day is not just a celebration, it is a solemn reminder of our duty to protect their dreams and create opportunities for them to thrive”.
The first lady stressed that under the current administration, every child in the state has access to free education, a safe learning environment, and equal opportunity irrespective of their background or origin.
Mrs Ododo hailed the children as the most treasured gifts of the state and a reflection of its beautiful future while emphasising that every child in the state holds immense potential, which must be nurtured and protected.
According to her, it is the responsibility of the state to help translate their aspirations into reality, just as she further encouraged the children to dream big and believe in their own abilities.
“I will continue to use my voice and platform to open doors for every child in Kogi. We believe in them, and we know they are the future,” she declared.
Speaking ,Commissioner for Education, Hon. Wemi Jones, praised the efforts of teachers across the state, whose dedication has helped bring the governor’s educational vision to life.
He applauded the increasing academic performance of students in the state, while assuring residents that the governor’s commitment to education remains resolute.
“Governor Ododo has consistently prioritised education as a cornerstone for development and the First Lady has been a strong pillar of support in this cause”, he added.
In her address, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Fatima Momoh, reiterated that the welfare of children remains at the heart of the current administration.
She commended Governor Ododo for fostering an enabling environment where Kogi’s children can grow and flourish.
Executive Chairman, Kogi State Senior Secondary Education Board, Dr Habiba Suleiman, In her opening remark, highlighted the state’s strategic focus on investing in children.
She described the theme of this year’s celebration: Invest in our children, invest in our future as a call to action.
” Every kobo we invest in our children is an investment in the prosperity and security of Kogi” , Dr Suleiman stated.
She then advised the children to detest all forms of social vices.