The Inspector General of Police, Dr Kayode Egbetokun has charged children and youths to make wise choices that will secure their future and contribute to a safer society.
The IGP, represented by the Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Zone 2, Lagos, Adegoke Fayoade, gave the charge on Saturday, May 31, at the celebration of Children’s Day organised by the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV), Lagos State chapter.
The event, which was held at Police College, Ikeja, had as its theme: “Every Right, Every Child,” and drew children from over 20 schools across the state.
Present at the event were traditional rulers, senior police officers, stakeholders and security organisations.
IGP Egbetokun urged the children not to partake in anything that would affect their academics and health, or retard their progress.
The IGP described the POCACOV initiative as a good example of preventive policing in action, admonishing the youths to engage in positive ventures that would promote their growth and excellence in terms of their productivity and contribution to the socio-economic development of their country.
In his remarks, the state Commissioner Of Police CP Moshood Olohundare Jimoh, who was represented by ACP Vera Ameh-Akpa, stressed on the value of POCACOV’s efforts in sensitising young people against cultism and other harmful behaviours.
Speaking at the event, the National Coordinator of POCACOV, ACP Olabisi Okuwobi, highlighted the growing impact of the campaign against cultism and other vices.
She expressed optimism that with sustained engagement, the number of young people that would be free from vices in the next five years would be remarkable.
“This event is a proof that POCACOV is being embraced by the youth,” she stated.
In his welcome address, the state Chairman of POCACOV, Dr. Moses Oladimeji, said that the celebration was to honour and protect the rights, dreams, and future of every child.
“In POCACOV, we understand that children are the heartbeat of society; they are the treasures we must nurture, protect and empower, so they can grow into responsible, creative, and productive citizens,” the state Chairman said.
Dr Oladimeji added that the year’s theme was to call on the government, parents, teachers, community leaders, faith-based groups, civil societies and the private sector to reaffirm commitment to upholding the rights of every child to education, safety, protection, expression and participation, as well as a healthy, drug and violence-free environment.
He assured on the commitment of POCACOV team in Lagos to sensitising children and youth against the dangers of cultism, drug abuse, bullying and violence, in addition to promoting positive alternatives such as education, creativity, sports, and entrepreneurship.
The chairman also affirmed partnership with schools, parents and community leaders to ensure that every child has access to opportunities that would shape their future for good.
He thanked the police leadership, partnering schools and institutions, parents, the media, community champions and all who contributed to making the day a reality.
He also saluted all children, calling them the stars being celebrated.
Oba Fatai Aremu Aromire of Ojora and Ijora Kingdom, who was represented by Chief Akeem Oladipupo Ojora, praised POCACOV for its a timely intervention to guide young people.
The monarch enjoined parents, educators and community leaders to be models of integrity and good decision-making.
One of the stakeholders who is a philanthropist and founder of Okachi Charity Foundation, Faith Morey, also lent her voice in support of POCACOV’s mission.
She spoke of her Foundation’s commitment to education and crime prevention among youths.
The day featured a blend of fun and education — from motivational talks and games to parades, debates, quizzes, and award presentations.
Students participated in engaging activities designed to educate and inspire, while they enjoyed meals, snacks and souvenirs provided by POCACOV’s corporate partners.
At the end of the event, in their feedback, the students, who were elated at the fun, enlightenment and empowerment they got, pledged to live by the values shared through the POCACOV campaign.
