Lagos: The Lagos State Government, through its Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, on Tuesday marked Children's Day with a line-up of vocational and cultural activities aimed at practical skills and values in children.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event drew thousands of children from various schools and communities across the state.
The event, held at the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, was focused on both entertainment and the impartation of skills and cultural awareness. Some of the vocational classes included photography, painting, shoemaking, candle making, and tie and dye.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Idris Aregbe, stated that the programme aimed not only to celebrate the children but also to expose them to meaningful learning activities that reinforce Nigerian values. He emphasized the importance of engaging, encouraging, and refining the children through these activities.
Aregbe highlighted the event as an opportunity to emphasize cultural values and instill respect for traditions in the children. He noted that despite the fun activities, children would leave with an added skill, promoting family entertainment and ensuring that children are not left behind.
He pledged the state's support in adding value to children and communities and urged various institutions to partner with the state to ensure the creation of the right path for children.
One of the guests at the event, Mrs. Oreva Taiwo, expressed joy that the children were given a platform to discover their talents and learn practical skills. Taiwo, a Director at Little Miss and Master Lagos, noted that these skills could shape the children's futures and be beneficial to society.
Participant Maleek Imam, who took part in the photography class, shared his experience of learning how to take shots for social media using both a camera and phone, and how to position someone for better pictures. Imam highlighted the practical advice given, such as not backing the sun while taking pictures for better results.