This year’s Children’s Day was commemorated with the theme “Protecting the Nigerian Child from the Dangers of Online Media and Technology”.

In Cross River State, Gede and Lafarge Africa Plc, celebrated with children from its educational support program on May 28, 2024. The highlight of the event was debate, quiz, artwork, drawing and dance competitions among students from 10 communities. This was aimed to create a platform for the children from various schools and backgrounds to express their opinions on critical issues that bother on education, social media, technology and mental health.

In a presentation, the media and technology consultant for Lafarge, Ms. Elizabeth, emphasized on the importance of understanding the dangers associated with social media and the need to ensure that children are safeguarded. She explained the responsibilities of parents and guardians in the upbringing of theire children and wards. These included: i) encouraging open communication, ii) setting limits on screen time, and, iii) actively monitoring online activities. These will help in mitigating potential risks as well as promote healthy social media habits among their children and wards.

The Cross River State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Youth Development, Mrs. Edema Irom, advised the students on the need to stay focused with this opportunity of being in school, and that they should use the social media for learning purposes. She emphasized on the importance of laying good foundations in order to ensure a productive life.

Jeremiah Effanga, representing the Gede Foundation in his address, acknowledged the opportunities for connection, creativity, and learning offered by the internet and social media platforms. However, he also highlighted the associated risks to children's mental well-being including: sleep disturbances, feelings of low self-worth, online addictions leading to a decreased academic performance, and withdrawal from offline activities and relationships.

Awards were presented to students that participated and displayed talents in various competitions.