How AGCRF Is Redefining Children’s Day Celebration with ‘Be Bold’ Programme

How AGCRF Is Redefining Children’s Day Celebration with ‘Be Bold’ Programme

Many people see Children’s Day as a moment for children to take a break from the rigours of school and simply have fun. And rightly so, after all, the saying “all work and no play makes Jack a dull lad” has echoed for generations. But in today’s world where every moment is a chance to build a better future, there’s a growing recognition that the Children’s Day celebrations can be fun and still be deeply meaningful.

This is the idea behind the Be Bold Children’s Day Programme organised by the Amazing Grace Children Rights Foundation (AGCRF). For seven years, the foundation has been committed to creating a different kind of experience for children, one that feeds their minds as much as it excites their hearts. The foundation’s flagship programme is helping children to build courage, confidence, and a deeper awareness of themselves and their rights.

This year’s edition drew over 500 children from various schools across the Ijegun to Ikotun axis in Alimosho local government area of Lagos State. The day was packed with learning, laughter and life-changing conversations, and children were celebrated in a way that made them feel seen, heard and empowered. The event was held at De Vogue Event Centre, Ijegun Road, Ikotun, Lagos under heavy security watch of the private security guards hired by the Foundation.

One of the highlights of the day was a powerful seminar delivered by the CEO, Reggypanache Training Consult, Mrs Regina Chris Ogbodo, which focused on issues often swept under the rug; abuse, self-awareness, and the urgent need for children to speak up when they are being abused or molested. The children listened with rapt attention, engaged with questions, and shared their thoughts.

She used her true life story to draw lessons of why teenagers should avoid early pregnancy and speak out against molestation and sexual harassment.

“The Be Bold programme has always been about giving children the tools to rise beyond fear and discover the greatness within them,” said Mrs. Grace Adeyemi, Founder and CEO of AGCRF.

“We believe every child should feel seen, valued and protected. This year, seeing their joy, their questions, and their boldness to engage us reminded us why we do what we do.”

The Chairman of the foundation, Mr Muyiwa Adeyemi said he was particularly happy with this year’s Children Day Celebrations because what the AGCRF has been doing with the Be Bold programme was the thrust of President Bola Tinubu’s speech early in the day. He quoted President Tinubu to have said that, “See something, say something and do something.”

Mr Adeyemi said, “In the last seven years, the foundation has been empowering children to speak up against sexual harassment and all forms of abuses. We have many cases at hand now that will be difficult for many parents to believe. The good thing is that some of these children have been having confidence to come out and report ungodly advances from their so called uncles, neighbours and those they look up to as mentors. By this we have saved many children and protect their future.

“I will encourage parents to always provide conducive environment for their children to freely speak their minds and imbued confidence in them to report all strange advances that can lead to abuse.”

Pastor Ola Emmanuel and Elder Moses Olusegun Akeke presented gifts to the winners of the quiz competitions.

Many of the children at the event became emotional and could not fight tears rolling down their cheeks as one of the young girls narrated her ordeal and how her siblings could not believe her when she reported attempt to abuse her by one of their neighbours.

About eight schools ably represented and took part in quiz and game competitions, creating a sense of unity among the children. They include Richlancon Schools, 35, Pipeline Road, Ti’Oluwani Bus Stop, Ijegun Road, Ijegun; D Prof Maximum Height School, Royal Multitude International School, Strong Tower Schools, Grace Boarder’s schools, De Lord’s Academy, Ijegun Comprehensive Junior High School and ABIDEL Comprehensive Schools.

Winners proudly walked away with precious gifts such as school bags, notebooks and essential academic materials. For many, they were badges of honour and reminders that learning pays off. They were also feted with sumptuous meals and drinks to their satisfaction.

At its core, the Be Bold programme shows that children’s day celebrations can be a platform for growth, self-expression, and encouragement. It affirms that when children are taught, they should also be given room to act on what they’ve learned. When they are empowered, they should be challenged to do more and be more.

Over the years, AGCRF has gone beyond programmes and has awarded scholarships to over eight children and continues to support vulnerable families in need of educational aid. The goal remains to uplift children and position them for a future filled with promise.

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