As the world marks the 2025 World Day Against Child Labour (WDACL), the Office of the First Lady of Edo State has reaffirmed its commitment to championing the fight against child labour in the state.
The Coordinator of the Office, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, made this known in a statement released in Benin City on Wednesday, stressing the urgent need to accelerate efforts aimed at eliminating child labour across communities.
Mrs. Anani expressed concern over the staggering number of children globally still trapped in child labour, estimated at about 160 million. She identified poverty, illiteracy, unemployment, social inequality, and a lack of awareness as the root causes of the scourge, which continues to deny children their right to education, healthcare, and overall development.
The 2025 World Day Against Child Labour is themed “Progress is evident, but there is more work to be done: Let’s accelerate efforts!”, emphasizing the need for renewed commitment from governments, institutions, and citizens alike.
Mrs. Anani also lauded Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration for prioritizing child protection initiatives under the SHINE Agenda — which focuses on Security, Health, Infrastructure, Natural Resources, and Education — as part of efforts to combat child labour and improve the welfare of children in Edo State.
She called on government agencies, civil society organisations, religious leaders, traditional institutions, and other stakeholders to collaborate in safeguarding children’s rights and securing a better future for them.
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The Office of the Edo First Lady continues to advocate for children’s welfare as a fundamental part of its social development drive, ensuring that no child is left behind.
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