Omenugha Commends Soludo’s Commitment to Eradicating Child Labour in Anambra

By Ukpa Ewa

 In commemoration of World Day Against Child Labour, the Special Adviser to Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo on Youth Empowerment Programme, Dr. Nelson Omenugha, has reiterated Anambra State Government commitment to eliminating child labour through strategic policies and initiatives.

Speaking during a courtesy visit by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Anambra State Council, held in Awka, Dr. Omenugha emphasized that Governor Soludo has been intentional in tackling child labour by ensuring free and compulsory education at all levels across the state.

“The Governor has provided free education in Anambra State, understanding that education is a great enabler and equalizer,” Omenugha stated. “He has also enacted laws mandating that every child must be in school and anyone found abusing or exploiting children faces the full wrath of the law.”

Reflecting on the 2025 World Day Against Child Labour theme, “Progress is clear but there is more to do: Let’s speed up efforts,” Dr. Omenugha noted that Anambra has already made significant strides. “In less than three years, Governor Soludo has provided both the legal and executive frameworks to ensure that every child born in Anambra is well protected and given access to education and healthcare,” he said.

He highlighted the state achievements, including free antenatal care, free nursery, primary and secondary education, as well as bursaries for tertiary level students. According to Dr. Omenugha, these policies reflect government determination to raise useful and empowered citizens.

“Currently, Anambra State has one of the lowest rates of out-of-school children in Nigeria just 0.2%,” he disclosed. “Child labour is virtually non existent in the state thanks to deliberate and sustained interventions.”

In addition to the gains in child protection, Dr. Omenugha also announced the next phase of government One Youth, Two Skills programme, under which about 8,000 youths will be trained and empowered.

“We are in an election year, and while propaganda is inevitable, the facts remain clear — the Soludo administration is investing heavily in young people and laying the foundation for a prosperous future,” he added.

Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Anambra State Council, Comrade Emeka Odogwu, PhD, informed Dr. Omenugha of his nomination for the Outstanding Youth Mentor Award, to be presented on August 25, 2025, at the International Convention Center, Awka.

Comrade Odogwu applauded Dr. Omenugha for his exemplary service, grassroots impact and ability to galvanize, mobilize and mentor young people across the state. “You have distinguished yourself as a key youth figure in this administration. This award is unique and unprecedented recognition of your service,” he noted.

He further disclosed that the award will be be given alongside NUJ Man of the Year honour and is expected to be one of the highlights of the Union annual press week.

Highlight of the visit was the presentation of a public address system to NUJ by Dr. Omenugha, a gesture which was received with gratitude by the Council.