Anambra State Governor, Professor Chukwuma Soludo, has sparked nationwide conversation after declaring that parents who deny their children access to education would face sanctions under a new enforcement drive targeted at eliminating out-of-school children in the state.
The governor made the bold declaration on Wednesday during the 2026 Children’s Day celebration held in Awka, where he insisted that no child should be found roaming the streets during school hours when free education opportunities already exist in the state.
Addressing a large gathering of pupils, students, teachers, traditional leaders and government officials at the event themed, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” Soludo described the act of keeping children away from school as not only irresponsible but criminal.
According to him, the state government is prepared to begin strict enforcement measures against parents and guardians whose children are caught hawking, begging or wandering around instead of attending classes.
“We will commence full enforcement immediately. If we find children outside during school hours, we will hold their parents responsible because denying a child education is criminal,” the governor declared emphatically.
Soludo maintained that education remains the strongest weapon against poverty, crime and social instability, stressing that every child deserves the opportunity to build a better future through learning.
The governor noted that Anambra’s free education policy was introduced to remove financial barriers preventing children from accessing quality education, adding that parents therefore have no excuse to keep their children out of school.
He revealed that the state currently records one of the lowest rates of out-of-school children in Nigeria, but insisted that his administration would not relax until the figure drops completely to zero.
Beyond enforcing school attendance, Soludo also announced plans to establish a dedicated Juvenile Correctional Centre in Anambra State to separate child offenders from adult detainees.
According to him, exposing children to adult correctional facilities could worsen their conditions instead of reforming them, stressing the need for a more humane and child-centred rehabilitation system.
The governor further promised increased attention to inclusive education for children living with disabilities, while also unveiling plans for a free emergency support line to help abused and vulnerable children across the state.
Soludo emphasised that national development can only be meaningful when every child, regardless of background, gender or physical ability, is given equal access to opportunities and protection.
“Inclusion must become the moral foundation of our society. Every Nigerian child deserves dignity, belonging and the chance to succeed,” he said.
Earlier in her remarks, the Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Mrs Esther Onyekesi, commended the wife of the governor, Dr Nonye Soludo, for her continuous advocacy for child welfare, healthy living and improved nutrition for children across Anambra communities.
She also reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to tackling child labour, abuse, trafficking and street hawking through stronger collaborations with relevant agencies and community stakeholders.
The colourful Children’s Day celebration featured march-pasts, cultural displays and presentations by children from various schools, with many participants applauding the state government’s renewed commitment to child protection and quality education.
