In a unique celebration of the 2024 World Children’s Day, UNICEF, in collaboration with the Borno State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, the Borno State House of Assembly, CASFOD, and the Borno State Children’s Parliament, hosted a historic event where children assumed leadership roles in the Borno State House of Assembly for a special sitting.
The highlight of the event was 15-year-old Fatima Chiroma Zanna from Marte Constituency, who made history as the first girl in 20 years to serve as the one-day Speaker of the Borno State Children’s Parliament. Fatima, an aspiring medical doctor, led the children from various constituencies as they shared their ideas and perspectives, symbolizing the empowerment of young voices in governance.
During the session, Dr. Gerida Birukila, UNICEF Chief of the Maiduguri Field Office, represented by Joseph Senesie, UNICEF Nutrition Manager, highlighted the importance of children’s rights and the need for more progress.
“I want to emphasize that while strides have been made to actualize the rights of children, there is still much work to be done,” Birukila said.
He also noted that the recent flooding had compounded the challenges faced by children in Borno.
“As we speak, thousands of children displaced by the flood are out of school. UNICEF is currently providing radio learning classes for over 10,000 displaced children in IDP camps in Gubio and Dikwa,” he added.
Alhaji Waziri Mohammed, representing Save the Children, a UNICEF partner, called on lawmakers, policymakers, and stakeholders to ensure the full implementation of laws that safeguard children’s rights.
“Passing the law is only the first step. Its true impact will be felt when it is fully enforced. We must ensure adequate resources, awareness campaigns, and structures are in place to bring this law to life. Our children deserve nothing less than the full realization of their rights to protection, education, and participation,” Waziri stated.
He reaffirmed Save the Children’s commitment to supporting this cause, emphasizing the importance of platforms like the Borno State Children’s Parliament in amplifying children’s voices and advocating for their rights.
“We believe every child has the right to be protected from harm, to have a voice in decisions affecting their lives, and to access opportunities to reach their full potential,” Waziri said.
As part of the commemoration, UNICEF illuminated the Old Welcome Roundabout near St. Patrick’s Church in Maiduguri in blue, with key messages on child rights displayed prominently to raise awareness.
The event served as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility to ensure a brighter, safer future for children in Borno and beyond.