The Founder of The Duke’s Infant and Child Foundation and convener of the maiden Train-the-Trainers Summit, Mrs. Augusta Olachi Anyanwu-Egbom, has expressed deep concern over the rising moral decline among children and called for urgent value reorientation in homes, schools, and communities.
Speaking at the summit held recently in Asaba and Warri, Mrs. Anyanwu-Egbom said the programme was designed to address what she described as a worsening breakdown in parenting, weak mentorship, and a growing lack of commitment among some educators. She warned that the country risks raising a generation disconnected from core values if nothing is done.
Re-emphasising that moral development starts in the home, she urged parents and guardians to be more intentional about shaping children’s character. “True empowerment begins at home. Every word we speak, every lesson we teach, every act of kindness we show contributes to building tomorrow’s leaders,” she said.
She also highlighted the need for inclusive development, stressing that children with special needs must not be excluded from conversations about moral and intellectual growth. Mrs. Anyanwu-Egbom further noted that today’s children face increasing threats such as drug abuse, cultism, violence, peer pressure, and the temptation of fast but destructive lifestyles making strong parental guidance more important than ever.
Declaring the summit open, the wife of the Delta State Governor, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori represented by Mrs. Ify Akpowowo, wife of the Deputy Speaker described the initiative as a “sacred mission” to raise leaders, not just children who merely survive. She observed that unrestrained exposure to technology and social media is eroding moral development. “We are in a time where values are challenged, identity is questioned, and the noise of the digital age threatens to drown the still, small voice of purpose,” she said.
Also speaking, the State Commissioner for Primary Education, Dr. Kingsley Ashibuogwu, lamented what he called an “attitudinal derailment” among children and underscored the pivotal role of teachers. According to him, “Parents may not know school owners, but they know teachers. When children excel, the school is praised; when they misbehave, the school is blamed. Teachers must take this summit seriously.”
Participants at the event described the summit as timely and inspiring. With its focus on values, responsibility, and leadership, the initiative aims to strengthen family structures, enhance moral upbringing, and help shape a new generation prepared to lead with integrity.
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