File photo of Anambra State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Esther Onyekesi.

The Anambra State Government says it will strengthen child protection across the state by establishing functional child protection desks in all local government areas, training social workers, and collaborating with traditional rulers and presidents-general to safeguard children at the grassroots.

The Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Esther Onyekesi, disclosed this during the 2026 Children’s Day celebration held at the Dr Alex Ekwueme Square in Awka.

Mrs Onyekesi said the Ministry would also partner with the Anambra State Universal Basic Education Board to reduce the number of out-of-school children, particularly among the girl child, while strengthening collaboration with non-governmental organisations to provide scholarships for deserving children.

According to her, the state government is equally committed to supporting mothers and caregivers through skill acquisition programmes and microgrants aimed at stabilising families and ensuring children remain safe in schools and colleges across the state.

The Commissioner expressed concern over the growing negative influence of social media on children, urging young people to embrace only the positive aspects of digital platforms in order to become responsible and productive citizens.

She also called on parents and guardians to see child upbringing and development as a shared responsibility that requires collective commitment and moral guidance.

Mrs Onyekesi commended Chukwuma Soludo and the First Lady, Nonye Soludo, for programmes and policies targeted at improving the welfare of women and children in the state.

She urged Ndị Anambra to continue supporting and praying for the Soludo administration, which she said remains committed to a clear vision for the development of the state and the wellbeing of its people.