Celine Lafoucriere, chief of the UNICEF Lagos field office, led celebrations of the World Children’s Day at the Lagos House of Assembly complex in Alausa, highlighting critical issues affecting children across the state.

Speaking on Thursday at the WCD Policy Dialogue with Legislators & Arts Exhibition by Children, Ms Lafoucriere urged lawmakers to prioritise children’s rights, including their rights to identity, protection, education, health, and nutrition.

The 2025 theme for World Children’s Day is ‘My Day, My Right’, a global day of action for children usually observed on November 20.

It marks the anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child and serves as a call to action for schools, communities, and institutions to engage with and support children.

She encouraged lawmakers to turn children’s stories into meaningful action, highlighting that the legislature held the key to shaping brighter futures for every child.

“You are in the House of Assembly, where laws, budgets, and priorities are decided. You have the opportunity to positively transform children’s lives today. The World Children’s Day allows us to raise awareness, mobilise support, and amplify children’s voices, ensuring their concerns are heard and their rights fully respected.

“Every child you invest in becomes a healthier, smarter, more productive adult. UNICEF remains committed to supporting Lagos state in ensuring that the rights of every child are fulfilled,” said Ms Lafoucriere.

While commending the state’s strong performance in birth registration, she also emphasised the importance of collaboration,

She noted that many children are still out of school, saying that UNICEF worked closely with state authorities to remove barriers, enhance access, and promote inclusive, high-quality learning environments that ensure every child can thrive.

Ms Lafoucriere noted that child security must extend beyond classrooms, adding that protection included daily life, homes, and communities. She stressed that the Nigerian government must ensure that safety remains a guaranteed right for all children.

In his response, the leader of the house, Temitope Adewale, noted that the state government was making significant efforts to create an enabling environment for children. He assured that the issues raised would be thoroughly reviewed and addressed accordingly.

In his remarks, the chairman of the House Committee on Youths and Social Development, Abiodun Orekoya, applauded UNICEF for its unwavering commitment to children. He noted that UNICEF’s continuous support was helping to secure a brighter, more promising future for every child.

He also encouraged the children to envision themselves as future members of the parliament, urging them to stay away from drugs, so they could succeed, excel, and fulfil their true potential in life.

(NAN)