By Danhassan Abubakar
Children in Bauchi have taken their demands directly to policymakers as UNICEF Nigeria, in partnership with state ministries and agencies, marked the 2025 World Children’s Day. The event gave children a rare opportunity to speak on their rights, safety, and wellbeing.
World Children’s Day 2025 was celebrated in Bauchi with an unusual twist—children sitting face-to-face with those who make decisions that affect their lives.
At the event organised by UNICEF Nigeria Bauchi Field Office, children highlighted their concerns under this year’s theme, “My Day, My Rights.”
Representing the UNICEF Chief of Field Office, Oluseyi Olosunde said the Day is a reminder that children’s rights are fundamental human rights. He stressed the need for stronger media advocacy to ensure children’s voices are heard beyond commemorations.
One after another, the children presented their demands—calling for safer schools, improved WASH facilities, better classrooms, stronger nutrition services and quality healthcare. They also appealed for social protection systems that can help them reach their full potential.
Officials from the State Ministry of Justice and the Nigeria Bar Association educated the children on their rights and legal protections, equipping them with knowledge on how the law supports their welfare.
The State Commissioner of Education, Dr. Muhammad Lawan Riminzayan, and ALGON Chairman, Mahmood Babama’aji, praised UNICEF for creating the platform. They pledged stronger collaboration to strengthen child welfare and thanked Governor Bala Mohammed and the First Lady for prioritizing children’s development.
World Children’s Day, marked every 20th of November, continues to push global attention towards the rights and wellbeing of children.
