By Claribel Udah/Chioma Nwankwo/Chika Obi/Anthonia Amaechina
Hundreds of pupils and students gathered at Dr. Chuba Ikpeazu Stadium as Onitsha North Local Government Area celebrated Nigerian Children 2025. The event, organized under the chairmanship of Mayor Nweze Tony Nwora, underscored the community’s commitment to nurturing its young citizens and spotlighted Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s child-care initiatives.
Mayor Nwora opened the ceremony by reflecting on the theme “Planning Board Essence, Enforcement & Compliance,” calling on parents, teachers and stakeholders to invest in children’s welfare and stem the tide of truancy, substance abuse and other social ills.
He praised Governor Soludo’s “Soludo Solution” programmes, which prioritize youth development across the 21 local government areas as instrumental in building hope and opportunity for the state’s future leaders.
The highlight of the day was a spirited march past featuring primary and secondary schools in Onitsha North. Each school paraded in their distinct uniforms, vying for top honours.
In the Primary category, All Saints Primary School clinched first place, Omagba Primary School took second, and Woliwor Primary School finished third. In the Secondary division, Ado Girls Secondary School was declared champion, followed by Anglican Girls Secondary School and New Era Secondary School in third. Mayor Nwora presented trophies to the winning schools as cheers echoed across the stadium.
Beyond the parade, cultural troupes from St. Mary’s Primary School and Anyaegbunam Memorial Primary School enlivened the programme with traditional Igbo dances, while St. Mary’s also staged the captivating “Royal Egwu Ota.” dance by a pupil. All participating schools received certificates of recognition and gifts from the Mayor.
The event attracted a host of dignitaries, including Hon. Patrick Agha Mba, Commissioner for Youths and Sports; Dr. Obidi Ifejika, Zonal Officer; Hon. Okwy Maduekwe, APGA Chairman of Onitsha North; Maduka Helen, Head of Administration; HPM Obiegbulu; Okaka Victor, HOD Technical Education; Obasanaya, HOD Agriculture; and Mrs. Chikelu Chinwe, HOD Education.
Dr. Ifejika delivered the vote of thanks, commending all organizers, participants and guests for making the celebration a resounding success.
As the festivities concluded, participants departed inspired to uphold the values of discipline, unity and community services, ensuring that Nigeria’s children and youths remain at the heart of Anambra State’s development agenda.
The officers are of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
