By Kayode Afolabi, Ore

Parents and guardians have been urged to be good role models to their children and to instill in them a sense of self-confidence and responsibility.

The Chairman of Odigbo Local Government area of Ondo State, Honourable Taiwo Adegoroye, made this call during the council’s Children’s Day celebration in Ore.

He said, “Essentially, parents must be good role models, instilling a sense of self-confidence and responsibility in their children, and closely monitoring what their children do both outside and inside the home.”

Adegoroye, while citing issues such as bullying, sexual molestation, and other forms of abuse often perpetrated against children, highlighted the need for effective child protection measures and emphasised the importance of ensuring that children are always in safe environments.

Revealing strategic security measures by the Ondo State Government to protect children, Adegoroye noted, “The Ondo State Government, under the able leadership of Dr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has expressed a desire to implement anti-bullying policies and programmes to end the scourge in various educational institutions across the state.

“We therefore use this occasion to encourage all stakeholders in this local government to support and cooperate with the government in its bid to ensure a bullying-free learning environment.”

Adegoroye reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of his administration to education in Odigbo Local Government.

“One of the fundamental needs of a child is education—this is where their intellect will be cultivated and knowledge about the world will be acquired. It is also through education that life-sustaining skills are learned, especially as our world becomes increasingly digital and knowledge-driven.

“Children who grow up without quality education and good morals are at a disadvantage, and their future may be bleak. Parents and guardians must therefore strive to provide the best education for their children so they can remain relevant and competitive in life.

“Our children and youth have a significant role to play in ensuring that our democratic institutions of governance are continuously nurtured, improved, and strengthened to support national development and prosperity.

“You should therefore shun all forms of future-destroying vices, including cultism, internet fraud, pre-marital sex, prostitution, and drug abuse. If not, your future could be jeopardised because you are the hope and future of this great nation.

“My administration will do everything possible to provide quality education for our growing children, including the provision of adequate teaching aids and materials, the enhancement of social welfare, and the creation of a supportive environment for children and their parents to thrive—while also protecting the rights of every child,” Adegoroye vowed.