By Mustapha Salisu
Kano State Deputy Governor, Alhaji Murtala Sule Garo, has restated the state government’s commitment to promoting inclusive policies aimed at ensuring that vulnerable children, particularly children with disabilities and out-of-school children, are not left behind.
Speaking on behalf of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf during the 2026 International Children’s Day celebration, Garo said the administration remains focused on providing equal opportunities for every child, irrespective of gender, disability, religion, ethnicity or socio-economic status.
The event which was held today at held at Coronation Hall, Government House, Kano, was positioned under the theme, “Future Now, Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child.”
According to the Deputy Governor, inclusion is not merely a government policy but “a fundamental right and a moral responsibility that we owe to every Nigerian child.”
He noted that children represent the foundation of sustainable development and the future leaders of society “We are particularly committed to supporting vulnerable children, including children with disabilities, out-of-school children and those facing various forms of disadvantages,” Garo stated.
He explained that the government, in collaboration with communities, civil society organizations, traditional institutions and development partners, is working to eliminate barriers that hinder children’s participation and development.
Addressing children, the Deputy Governor urged them to pursue their dreams with determination and uphold the virtues of honesty, respect and patriotism.
Speaking earlier, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Children and Persons with Special Needs, Hajiya Amina S. Abdullahi (HOD), lauded the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf for expanding social protection programmes for vulnerable children and persons with disabilities.
(Photo Credit: SARAKEE NG)
She called for inauguration of the Kano State Child Protection Committee to facilitate the implementation of the Child Protection Law, noting that the move would help address child begging and the challenges facing street-connected children.
The Commissioner also advocated the enactment of an Orphanage Bill to strengthen safeguards against child abuse, trafficking and the proliferation of illegal orphanages.
Delivering the keynote address, Dr. Sulaiman Isyaku emphasized the link between child nutrition and development, saying, “The food you eat determines how you think. Your thinking determines your actions, and your actions determine your progress, and your progress determines the progress of the state and the nation.Therefore, if Kano State safeguards children’s nutrition, we can confidently say that inclusion has truly been achieved.”
Highlights of the event included a march-past parade, poem recitations, drama presentations and other performances.
