Valentine Ozigbo, a Nigerian business mogul and philanthropist, has sent a message of encouragement and hope to children as they mark another Children’s Day.
In a statement from his media office on Wednesday, May 27, 2020, Mr. Ozigbo described children as God’s priceless gift to families and on whom the future of mankind depends.
He also noted that Nigerian children are unable to celebrate the day as they do annually due to the coronavirus pandemic, but he encouraged them to stay hopeful, noting that this crisis will eventually pass and mankind will emerge stronger and more united.
“Today, Nigerian children, the light of our nation and the hope for the future are marking Children’s Day in circumstances they have never experienced in their lives,” the respected business leader said.
“Their learning programmes and social lives have been disrupted by the efforts to combat COVID-19. There’s enough evidence to conclude that when there’s an economic downturn, as we are experiencing now, children and women are the most affected.
“Despite the hardships, I want to encourage Nigerian children to stay resolute and committed to excellence. The bright future of our country depends on you, keep hope alive, and keep shining bright,” Mr. Ozigbo wrote.
Ozigbo, who is the immediate past President and Chief Executive Officer, also used the occasion of Children’s Day to call on the federal, state, and local governments in the country to prioritize investment in compulsory and quality education and universal healthcare for Nigerian children.
“Every effort must be made to ensure that all Nigerians receive a world-class education, provided with the right nutrition to grow into healthy, wealthy, and wise citizens. That is the least we owe them,” he said.
He wished all the country’s children a happy celebration.
On Tuesday, Ozigbo, who is the Chairman of Feet ‘N’ Tricks International, the largest promoter of Freestyle Football in Africa, unveiled the maiden edition of the Freestyle UNLOCKED Africa 2020 championship which is first of its kind on the continent.
The contest, which is a novel online Freestyle Football platform is open to all Africans including children, will open on July 1, 2020 and last for 20 days with cash prizes of $6300 to be won.
