World Day Against Child Labour: Otu take Action

In commemoration of the 2024 International Day Against Child Labour, celebrated on the 12th of June yearly, the Cross River State Government partnered with ‘Save the Children International’ to intensify public advocacy against child labor and abuse, expressing its commitment to eradicate child labor and associated crimes against children.

Governor Bassey Otu, represented by Dr. Inyang Asibong, Special Adviser on Gender Mainstreaming, on Wednesday emphasized the importance of sensitizing children against child labor during a Talkshow with school children on CRBC, Ikom.

\”While progress has been made in reducing child labor, we are joining forces with the Federal Government and Development Partners to accelerate action towards ending child labor in all its forms in Cross River State,\” the Governor said.

According to him, the sensitization program aims to prioritize schooling over work, highlighting the importance of education in breaking the cycle of child labor and reducing poverty, highlighting that the state government has adopted SDGs Target 8.7, committing to eliminate child labor by 2025 through the implementation of the Child Rights Act 2023.

“The \’Back to School\’ Project, initiated by Her Excellency, *Reverend Eyoanwan Otu*, has already benefited 5,000 children across the three senatorial zones, including refugees, with provisions of basic school amenities and orientation exercises.

The partnership with development partners demonstrates the state government\’s dedication to ensuring a safer, more equitable future for all children and protecting their rights.

Among the stakeholders in attendance were *Mrs. Grace Egwu*, Special Assistant to the Governor on Women Mobilization and Development, student representatives from various schools, and other interested parties.