In celebration of Children’s Day, Amnesty International organized a sports event at the Inter-Faith Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Camp in Gurku, Maraba, Nasarawa State.
The event, held over the weekend, featured various activities such as quizzes, storytelling, and sports, aiming to empower children to thrive despite their challenging circumstances and improve their overall well-being.
This event was not just a celebration but also an opportunity to use sports as a medium for human rights education.
It highlighted Amnesty International’s dedication to uplifting and empowering children displaced by conflict and crises.
Maurice Chukwu, an Amnesty International researcher, emphasized the organization’s commitment to protecting children’s rights, particularly those affected by insurgency.
“We believe in the rights of children, and it’s our responsibility to ensure their protection, even in the face of adversity,” Chukwu stated.
He stressed the importance of continuous engagement with children in IDP camps, noting, “We have done this over the years, and it’s part of our work to ensure everyone’s rights are protected.”
Chukwu also pointed out that training children is essential because it has a ripple effect on the entire community and, by extension, the country.
Chief Manasseh Byanyiko, the Mai Angwar of Gurku IDP Camp, praised Amnesty International for organizing the event. He expressed that such programs help the children forget their troubles and focus on their future.
Mr. Gideon Girbi, the Head Teacher of the Inter-Faith IDP Camp Primary and Montessori School, expressed gratitude to Amnesty International. He believes the program will have a significant positive impact on the children’s lives.
Marcus Gamache, the initiator of the Inter-Faith IDP Camp in Gurku, described the event as the first of its kind since the camp’s inception in September 2014.
The children received gifts such as vests, books, pens, and refreshments at the end of the event.
Additionally, Amnesty International donated sports equipment, including footballs, volleyballs, nets, jerseys, chess sets, and Scrabble sets, to the camp.
Amnesty International’s sports workshop aimed to promote the rights and well-being of IDP children, and its positive impact is expected to last long after the event.
Through engaging activities like Scrabble, chess, football, and volleyball, the organization also seeks to foster a sense of community, resilience, and awareness about children’s rights among the young participants.
