In celebration of the May 27, 2026 Children’s Day, children from various schools across Owerri took center stage as anchors and guests during a special edition of the SeeSay Radio Reporting Programme, creating a platform where young voices were heard and valued.
The unique broadcast is a weekly featured reporting show where members of the public are given room to complain and report on issues that are human rights related, rule of law inclined, governance and corruption, it is an engaging and interactive session held every Wednesday by 2pm on cadvocate facebook live and Ozisa 96.1fm Owerri.
During the children`s day edition of the reporting radio program, the children openly discussed pressing issues affecting their lives. Key among these were children’s mental health and the growing influence of social media on young people.
The session was marked by a vibrant atmosphere, filled with laughter, honesty, and thought-provoking contributions, as the children shared their everyday experiences and challenges navigating life in today’s fast-changing world.
The anchor of te program, Excel Martins, JSS 3 student of Owerri girls secondary school engaged her fellow children on one of the major topics affecting young people today, which is whether children should have access to social media.
While opinions varied, a majority of the participants agreed that children should be allowed access, but emphasized the importance of proper guidance and close monitoring by parents and guardians to prevent misuse and exposure to harmful content. Their responses reflected a surprising level of awareness and maturity about the digital world and its potential risks.
In a segment designed to inspire leadership thinking, the children were asked what they would do if they were President for a day. Interestingly, many used the opportunity to raise serious concerns about insecurity in Nigeria.
One of the Children from Divine Mercy American International Academy, Ekwe Bright specifically highlighted the growing number of out-of-school children, linking the issue to ongoing insecurity and insurgency across parts of the country. Treasure Martins from Owerri Girls Secondary school went ahead to reference recent incidents, including the Oyo school kidnapping, as examples of how insecurity continues to disrupt education and threaten the safety of children.
At the end of the programme, the children expressed deep excitement and appreciation for the opportunity to share their thoughts freely, an opportunity they noted is often limited in society.
Their participation underscored the importance of creating safe spaces where children can express themselves, share ideas, and contribute to conversations that affect their future.
The event served as a strong reminder to parents, guardians, and society at large about the need to listen to children more intentionally.
As stakeholders in their development, it is crucial to pay attention not only to their physical well-being but also to their emotional and mental health, ensuring that their voices are acknowledged and respected.