Amgbare Ekaunkumo, Yenagoa
The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Bayelsa State Area Office organized a lively Children’s Day event for students from various schools across the state.
The celebration took place at Pees Hub Event Center along Alamieyeseigha Road, Opolo, Yenagoa.
In his opening address, Engr. Godknows Salo Alamieyeseigha, Director of the NDDC Bayelsa State Office, emphasized the importance of children as valued members of society worldwide.
He urged the young attendees to respect their parents, elders, and authorities, focus on their education, and strive for excellence, before officially declaring the event open.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of Governor Douye Diri, Hon. Kuroakegha Iyanye, Special Adviser to the Bayelsa State Governor on NDDC Affairs, described children as divine blessings, treasures, and the leaders of tomorrow.
He expressed concern over the increasing number of children hawking during school hours and called on the government to hold parents accountable for ensuring their children’s education.
He also encouraged the NDDC to collaborate with his office in planning future celebrations, expressing enthusiasm for a partnership to create even grander events for children.
Tonye Omoni, Consultant to the NDDC for the Children’s Day event and Director of the Digital Support Foundation, advised the children to pursue their education diligently to become responsible individuals.
She cautioned them against cultism, crime, and drug abuse, and expressed gratitude to the NDDC leadership for organizing the celebration.
Mrs. Eucharia Okio, Head of Social Services at the NDDC Bayelsa State Office, called on parents, government bodies, schools, religious institutions, and society at large to prioritize children’s protection, upbringing, and education to prepare them for meaningful contributions to society.
The event featured an array of engaging activities, including a ballet performance, a spelling challenge using cardboard letters to form “NDDC,” a word scramble game, an exercise to arrange Nigerian states alphabetically, an art exhibition by students, a merry-go-round, and the presentation of gifts to winners and participating schools.
Among the notable dignitaries in attendance was Engr. Anthony Oyabebefa, Assistant Director of the NDDC Bayelsa State Area Office.
