***Vows Bigger Otukpo Carnival , Stronger Girl-Child Support
As Nigeria celebrates the 2025 Universal Children’s Day, the lawmaker representing Otukpo-Ohimini Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Honourable Blessing Onuh, has called for stricter penalties against crimes targeting minors, especially sexual abuse. She also renewed her commitment to child education, girl-child empowerment, and the annual Otukpo Children Carnival.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday, Hon. Onuh emphasized that Nigerian children are a national treasure deserving of love, care, and robust protection.
Reflecting on this year’s theme, “Little Footsteps, Big Future,” she described it as both timely and motivational. “As a mother and aspiring grandmother, I delightfully celebrate children across the nation today. They are the future of our society, and we must do all we can to guide them to greatness,” she said.
The former Secretary for Social Development at the FCT Administration decried the rising cases of child abuse and rape, insisting that offenders must face the full weight of the law. “Anyone who assaults a minor should be dealt with decisively. The future of this country must be protected,” she stated.
Hon. Onuh called on all tiers of government to prioritize education, particularly for the girl child. “Gone are the days when girls were confined to domestic duties or early marriage. Women who were once girls are now breaking barriers globally,” she said.
She announced plans to make the 18th edition of her flagship initiative, the Otukpo Children Carnival, even bigger and more impactful. “Last year’s edition was grand, and by God’s grace, this year’s will be even more memorable for our children,” she said.
The two-term federal lawmaker commended the National Assembly for supporting legislation that protects children and praised the Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, for her passionate drive in advancing child welfare in Nigeria.
Encouraging children nationwide, Hon. Onuh urged them to stay focused on their dreams, study hard, and remain hopeful for a brighter future.
