By Awhawha Awhawha
In commemoration of this year’s Children’s Day celebration, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) community development service organized a program themed “Operation Feed a Child ‘A Meal A Smile'”.
The event, held at Steve Azaiki Library, brought together 120 children and was led by Corp Member Solomon Chimuaya Simon, BY/24C/1050.
The program was supported by the Eunice Nnachi Women Advocacy Foundation (ENWAF), and Women Organized for Mentorship and Advocacy Network (WOMAN).
Speaking at the event, Lady Eunice Nnachi, Founder of ENWAF, emphasized the organization’s commitment to promoting the rights and well-being of all children. She highlighted the importance of access to quality education, healthcare, and opportunities for children to thrive.
“We believe that supporting children is essential to building a more equitable and prosperous society,” Lady Nnachi said. “We call on stakeholders – parents, educators, policymakers, and community leaders – to join us in creating environments where every child can grow with confidence, dignity, and purpose.”
The celebration of International Children’s Day reaffirms ENWAF’s dedication to empowering children and promoting their rights. The feeding program is part of the organization’s efforts to make a positive impact in the lives of young ones.
According to Solomon, the initiative was inspired by a desire to give back to the community as a form of community service, and there has been several bad news around the Amarata community that has brought tension and fear in the neighborhood, which gives birth to this project.
He said, “over the past few months, there has been several bad news around the Amarata community that has loomed fear in the neighborhood; this project was carried out in a way to say; Something good happens here and to give hope to the less privileged children.
“Looking at the economic hardship in the land, many families are not able to feed at least twice in a day; this event was to put a smile on their face.
“As an SDGs(Sustainable Development Goals) advocate who’s passionate about Goal 2 “Zero Hunger” the above event created such opportunity.”
Highlights of the celebration featured activities,like tug of war, bag race, dancing competitions, spelling competitions, giveaways of exercise books, plastic cups, writing materials etc.
The event at Azaiki Library created a fun-filled environment where children expressed themselves, showcase their talents, and enjoy quality time with peers.