Popular Nigerian broadcaster and disability advocate, fondly known as Chichi, is set for the first edition of the Naija Children Festival, scheduled for Friday, October 4, 2024, at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.
Chichi, in a statement on Saturday, said the festival is aimed at empowering Nigerian children, through a diverse range of educational, cultural and recreational activities.
Born Chinyere Okohalum, Chichi who began her journey as a passionate sign language instructor and disability advocate, also disclosed that the festival seeks to foster a more inclusive and equitable society where every child can reach their full potential.
She said, “The Naija Children Festival was inspired by a passion for creating a safe, inclusive, and joyful environment where all children, regardless of abilities, can come together to celebrate their childhood. We believe that every child deserves the opportunity to have fun, learn, and build lasting friendships. The theme this year is “The Land is Still Green”. It’s a message of love, hope and inclusion.
“Our primary goals for the festival are to foster a sense of community and belonging among children, provide educational opportunities and promote personal development; celebrate the diversity and uniqueness of every child. Because we believe strongly that a child is a child, raise awareness about the importance of inclusion and accessibility for children with disabilities, leave no child behind and create a lasting impact on the lives of children and their families.”
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“We envision the Naija Children Festival as an annual event that continues to grow and evolve. We aim to make it a beloved tradition in the community, in commemoration of our independence celebration. We seek to provide a consistent platform for children to come together and celebrate.”
She added that with Soyinmacs Foundation’s support, the festival will achieve its objectives.
“Soyinmacs Foundation is the backbone of the festival. It has been instrumental in championing the Naija Children Festival. The chairman, Sunday Soyinka, popularly known as Apoti, is a man with a heart of gold and his passion for building a better tomorrow is the reason we have been able to put this inclusive event together.
“The foundation has provided and will continue to provide valuable guidance, resources, and financial assistance to this and many more impactful projects. Our commitment to the well-being of children especially those with special needs aligns perfectly with our mission, and we are here for it. This is just the beginning.”
In his remarks, the Festival Director, Seyi Okuyedi, said, “Nigeria Children’s Festival is a beacon of hope for our nation’s children in commemoration of this year’s independence celebration. With the theme ‘The Land is Still Green,’ we aim to instil a message of peace and optimism in the next generation.
“We are deeply grateful to Cedrus Group Africa, one of our most significant supporters, for their unwavering commitment to this cause. Their partnership is instrumental in spreading our message of hope and inclusion.”
