…as Adamawa colleague calls for concerted efforts to change narrative
Segun Babatunde, Gombe
The Gombe State Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Hon Salihu Baba Alkali has expressed worry that despite its huge potentials, the North-East subregion has been contending with poor human development Indicators in virtually all areas.
The commissioner, who was speaking in a goodwill message during a Media Dialogue on Child Poverty in Bauchi Field Office of Adamawa, Bauchi and Gombe organised by UNICEF held on Tuesday in Gombe, also lamented that the situation is compounded by the activities of insurgency and massive influx of people from conflict areas that surround the subregion”.
He added that the development has affected the impact of the modest gains the people are making, stressing that ” this has affected the impact of the modest gains we are making”.
According to him, “As you are aware, the Media Chat on Child Poverty is in line with current developmental priorities of our dear Geo-political zone. Therefore, would be immensely contributory to an improved Child development.”
“In this regard, the Government and people of Gombe, Adamawa and Bauchi states are overwhelmed by this development as its timely to brainstorms and harness ideas on how to tackle the menace and reduce the indices of Child poverty in the region I commend UNICEF for their tireless support especial in the NE state of Gombe, Adamawa and Bauchi.”
He said that, “I feel delighted to deliver the Goodwill Message of this all- important North East states of Adamawa, Gombe and Bauchi Media Chat on Child Poverty towards Improving the wellbeing and promoting sustainable growth for our future children.”
According to him,”The presence of this noble people from Bauchi. Adamawa in Gombe State at this time is a clear demonstration of the UNICEF administration’s drive.”
The Commissioner said that, “At this juncture, I wish to commend UNICEF for choosing Gombe State to be the host state for this dialogue. Translating concept to concrete results is not easy and indeed could be herculean. However, I wish to assure you of our governments full support and partnership to ensure maximum benefit for our Country.”
He then urged all of the participants to deliberately and frankly take decisions and ensure that the objectives for which this dialogue was designed will translate to measurable result.
“Dear Esteemed Guests, It is with great pleasure and a sense of urgency that we gather here today at the UNICEF Bauchi Field Office Media Dialogue.
“We are here to shed light on a critical issue that demands our immediate attention – child poverty in the focus states of Bauchi FO.
He said that “As we come together to discuss and raise awareness about the challenges faced by children in these regions, let us remember that every child deserves a fair chance at a bright future..
The commissioner emphasised that “It is our collective responsibility to ensure that no child is left behind due to circumstances beyond their control. Through collaborative efforts and meaningful dialogue, we can work towards creating a better tomorrow for the children of Bauchi FO.
He then added that “Let us amplify their voices, advocate for their rights, and strive to build a more inclusive and equitable society for all.Together, we can make a difference. Let us stand united in our commitment to combat child poverty and create a world where every child has the opportunity to thrive”.
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary, Adamawa State Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning, Enoch Amos said that, “Dear Esteemed Guests, It is with great pleasure and a sense of urgency that we gather here today at the UNICEF Bauchi Field Office Media Dialogue. We are here to shed light on a critical issue that demands our immediate attention – child poverty in the focus states of Bauchi FO.”
“As we come together to discuss and raise awareness about the challenges faced by children in these regions, let us remember that every child deserves a fair chance at a bright future. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that no child is left behind due to circumstances beyond their control,” he added.
Enoch Amos added that,”Through collaborative efforts and meaningful dialogue, we can work towards creating a better tomorrow for the children of Bauchi FO. Let us amplify their voices, advocate for their rights, and strive to build a more inclusive and equitable society for all.”
According to him,”Together, we can make a difference. Let us stand united in our commitment to combat child poverty and create a world where every child has the opportunity to thrive” .
