The election took place on the 25/04/2018 at the Cyprian Ekwensi Arts and Culture Event Centre.It was keenly contested among 83 students from 27 secondary schools within the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
In an interview with the Consultant of the National Children Parliamentary, Mr Anderson Achibong, told journalists that the childrenn’s parliament is a forum set up by govwrnment for children to express themselves. Although they do not make laws but they resolutions for onward transmission to various levels of government they belong. “It is a prevellage for children to speak out on their rights.
He noted that objective of the establishing the children’s parliament was to make teenagers pick up interest and start learning the rudiments of politics and governance from their early stage of life. “So far the impact has been positive on kids who have participated over the years” he said citing examples.
He regreted that funding has stalled the smooth operation of the programme and that resolutions made the children’s parliament were not given adequate attention.
He urged governments at various levels to appreciate the objective of the children’s parliament and take their resolutions serious as it is an authentic means of knowing the minds of the children.
In another interview with the new Speaker, Miss Oriaifo, she said will carry out her duty with the fear of God and human face.
She expressed delight in the transparent manner the election was done and thanked God for giving her victory.
Other positions contested were, the Deputy Speaker, Leader and Deputy Leader. Others were, The Clerk, Deputy Clerk, Mace Bearer and the National Representive.
According to Mr Anderson, the National Congress of the Children’s Parliament come up by May 22, 2018.