(http://fmi.gov.ng/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/chl-d-2-300x192.jpg) Borrowing a leaf from the late sage, Mohandas Gandhi who says "If we are to teach real peace in this world, and if we are to carry on a real war against war, we shall have to begin with the children", the Nigerian First Lady, Dame Patience Goodluck Jonathan today took a cross section of Nigerian children on a lesson highlighting the true values of peace.
(http://fmi.gov.ng/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/chl-d-3-300x258.jpg)Dame Patience Goodluck Jonathan presenting gifts to Master Somto Okefor winner of the Dancing competition in Aso Villa This was at the annual Children's Day party, which she hosted at the Banquet Hall of the State House, Abuja.
Although the Children's Day has been marked across the country with pomp and pageantry every year, since 1964, particularly as a public holiday for primary and secondary school pupils, the essence of the day is scarcely regarded with appropriate seriousness.
However, Dame Patience Jonathan took exception to this "rule", and seized the occasion to emphasize the need for Nigerian children to cultivate the culture of peace as a lifestyle.
The First Lady described peace as a fundamental ingredient of growth and national development, besides being the irreducible minimum for the realization of the hope and aspirations of individuals in the society.
She also reminded the children of the need to be obedient both to their parents and their teachers, who have committed their energies and resources to giving them quality education that will make them good citizens of this great country.
According to her, the security and prosperity of the future of this great nation depends significantly on the quality of children we raise today. She therefore, reminded parents and guardians in the country, that the task of providing their children and wards with sound moral and academic training is both a social and spiritual responsibility.
(http://fmi.gov.ng/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/chl-d-1-300x192.jpg)First Lady Dame Dr. Patience Goodluck Jonathan Presenting Gifts to some Children Dame Patience reassured the children that the Government is committed to taking all necessary steps to give them hope and a better future, especially with the various sector reforms currently going on as components of the Transformation Agenda of President Goodluck Jonathan.
The event was spiced with lots of food, drinks, dance, drama and gifts for the children, who turned up in large numbers in honour of the invitation from the mother of the nation.
The event was witnessed by the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajia Zainab Maina and other dignitaries, including wives of members of the National Assembly members, Ministers, Service Chiefs and other friends and supporters of the First Lady.
Via: Federal Ministry of Information (FMI) Nigeria