By Ibrahim Muhammad
The Jigawa State Government has reiterated its commitment to empowering women and children through Information and Communication Technology (ICT) training centres aimed at equipping them with skills required for the modern workforce.
The commitment was reaffirmed during the 2026 Children’s Day celebration organised by the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development at the Ahmadu Bello Hall, New Secretariat, Dutse.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Hadiza T. Abdulwahab, said the state government was investing in initiatives that would provide women and children with opportunities to acquire relevant skills and improve their future prospects.
Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Barrister Hauwa Zakar, the commissioner said the government had established ICT training centres across the state as part of efforts to prepare young people for emerging opportunities in the digital economy.
She noted that empowering women and children through education and skills acquisition remained a priority of the administration, adding that such investments would contribute significantly to sustainable development.
“We believe that by equipping our women and children with skills, we are laying a solid foundation for sustainable development in our community,” she said.
Barrister Zakar also highlighted the government’s commitment to child welfare through the enactment of the Child Protection Law, which seeks to safeguard the rights and well-being of children across the state.
She urged parents to take active interest in their children’s education and overall development, stressing the need for proper guidance and monitoring to ensure they grow into responsible and productive citizens.
The Children’s Day celebration, held under the theme, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Child,” featured cultural displays, educational games and inspirational talks designed to encourage learning and social interaction among children.
Officials from the education and social welfare sectors, including the Director of Schools for Nomadic Education, Abdullahi Dabo, and the Director of Social Welfare, Khalid Mohd, underscored the importance of education and social support systems in helping children realise their full potential.
Also speaking, a representative of Save the Children, Fatima Abdullahi, called for greater community involvement in ensuring that every child has access to quality education and equal opportunities regardless of background.
The event attracted students, teachers, government officials, development partners and community leaders, reflecting a shared commitment to promoting the rights and welfare of children in Jigawa State.
As part of the celebration, gifts were presented to selected students on behalf of the commissioner, symbolising the government’s recognition of children as future leaders and key stakeholders in the state’s development.
