Children’s Day: Kefas Urges Parents To Prioritise Child Upbringing, Security

Taraba State governor, Agbu Kefas, has called on parents and guardians to take a more active role in nurturing and protecting children, describing them as the foundation of civilisation and the future of society.

In a goodwill message to mark the 2026 Children’s Day celebration, Kefas stressed the need for collective responsibility in shielding children from harmful influences and preparing them for future challenges.

He said effective leadership and moral guidance must begin in the home, with parents and guardians playing a central role in shaping children’s character.

“The times we live in call for vigilance. Children are a heritage from God and given to us to nurture and preserve. We must mould their character and train them to face future challenges,” he said.

“In this arduous task, parents play a central role, but so do teachers and the entire community. Indeed, it takes the entire village to train a child as the popular saying goes.”

Kefas urged parents to pay closer attention to their children in a rapidly changing world, noting that the quality of upbringing at home would determine the future stability of society.

The governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to policies aimed at improving child welfare, particularly through the state’s free and compulsory education programme.

According to him, the initiative has significantly reduced the number of out-of-school children and curtailed child labour in Taraba State.

“I’m glad to observe that we have reduced the number of children on the streets who could not afford basic education. With the free and compulsory education programme, we have successfully cut down that number,” he stated.

He added that improved welfare support and better economic conditions for families have also positively impacted children’s wellbeing.

Kefas further assured residents that his administration would continue to strengthen security measures to guarantee the safety of children and families across the state.

He encouraged parents to remain positive role models, stressing that the home remains the first institution of learning and social development for every child.