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

Taraba State governor, Dr Agbu Kefas, has counselled parents and guardians to play active roles in nurturing and protecting children, describing them as the foundation of civilisation.

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

The governor said effective leadership and moral guidance must begin from the home, with parents and siblings taking the lead 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.

“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.”

Governor Kefas urged parents and guardians to pay closer attention to their children in a rapidly changing world, noting that the quality of leadership children receive at home would determine the future of society.

The governor also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to policies aimed at improving children’s 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 across the 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 packages and better remuneration for parents had positively impacted children’s lives.

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

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