Cross River NAWOJ celebrating with the vulnerable children of Calabar
By Anietie Akpan
The Cross River State Chapter of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) has called on the state government to take urgent steps in addressing the issues of street children in Calabar.
For the vulnerable children, it was a rare opportunity to have the NAWOJIANS as their guest on a Valantine’s Day as they got excited and thrilled in the interaction even though some of them were Camera shy.
The NAWOJ Chairman Mrs. Rekpene Uket who made the charge on Friday, February 14 while celebrating Valentine’s Day with the Street Children in Calabar, said the state government can do this by “providing rehabilitation and reintegration programmes” for the vulnerable children.
She said that, “equipping these children with skills and offering them a chance at a better life is key to reducing the growing problem of homelessness among minors”.
In addition, she urged the general public to extend kindness and support to street children beyond festive occasions.
“These children are part and parcel of our society. We should not wait until Valentine’s Day or any festive period before we show them love.
“As much as we have the opportunity, we should relate with them and find ways to change their situation,” Uket said.
In a unique celebration, NAWOJ marked this year’s Valentine’s Day with an act of compassion, celebrating with street children in Calabar and distributing gift items to them.
The Chairman of NAWOJ, emphasized the significance of showing love to the less privileged, particularly children who live on the streets.
She noted that Valentine’s Day is a time to spread love and ensure that no one is left out, especially vulnerable children.
“We have come to reassure these children that no matter the situation, God still loves them. As mothers and NAWOJIANS, we want them to feel loved and valued,” Uket stated.
The event highlighted the commitment of NAWOJ Cross River, doing advocacy and social responsibility, reinforcing the need for collective efforts in addressing the challenges faced by street children in the state.