The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, on Monday, enjoined Nigerian children to embrace the virtues that would guide them towards a path of greatness.
Akpabio stated this at the 2024 Children’s Day celebration specially organised by the Senate for children to commemorate their day.
The children who were invited for the special occasion at the Senate wing of the National Assembly were randomly selected from schools in the Federal Capital Territory.
Four of them were made to wear caps to symbolically typify President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin and Senate Leader, Michael Opeyemi Bamidele.
Akpabio represented by the Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, counselled the children to be upright in their actions and decisions and allow integrity to be the cornerstone upon which they build their character, advising them to uphold the values of honesty, fairness, and kindness, for they are the pillars of a just and compassionate society.
The President of the Senate noted that the yearly Children’s Day celebration was intended to shape their path towards greatness and a day that calls upon them to rise above mediocrity and embrace the qualities that would guide them towards a future of excellence.
Akpabio said, “My dear children, today, we gather here to celebrate the remarkable occasion of Children’s Day, a day that serves as a testament to the incredible potential that resides within each and every one of you.
“This day symbolizes the importance of childhood, a phase of life that moulds your character and shapes your path towards greatness. It is a day that calls upon you to rise above mediocrity and embrace the qualities that will guide you towards a future of excellence.
“As we commemorate this special day, I want to share with you an extraordinary story of resilience and determination – the story of Helen Keller. Helen Keller, a girl who triumphed over deafness and blindness, serves as an inspiration to us all.
embark on your journey through life. Remember that you hold the power to shape the destiny of our beloved nation. My dear Nigerian children, the future belongs to you.
“Seize every opportunity, learn from every experience, and strive to make a positive impact on the world. Believe in yourselves, for you are the architects of your own destiny. With unwavering determination and hard work, you can create a future that surpasses your wildest dreams.
“On this momentous day, I join you in celebrating the incredible potential that resides within each and every one of you. May your light shine brightly, and may your dreams soar high. Happy Children’s Day!”