President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to Child welfare as Nigeria commemorated the 2026 National Children’s Day celebration with renewed promises of inclusion, protection, education and youth empowerment.
The President who was represented by the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, during the national celebration in Abuja, described Nigerian children as “the pride of the republic” and “custodians of tomorrow’s promise.”
He said the voices, dreams and aspirations of Nigerian children must remain central to national development.
READ ALSO: World Children’s Day: Experts Urge Stronger Child Rights Advocacy
“A nation that listens to its children is one that is wisely preparing for the future,” the President noted.
Tinubu noted that the 2026 Children’s Day theme, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” reflects the urgent need to ensure that no child is left behind regardless of background, disability, social status or location.
According to him, the future of Nigeria already exists “in every classroom, playground, displaced persons camp and rural community,” stressing that inclusion must move beyond theory into practical action.
He assured Nigerian children that the Government remains committed to ensuring equal access to quality education, healthcare, nutrition, digital opportunities and social protection.
The President also announced that the Federal Government has designated 2026 as the “Year of Families and Social Development,” emphasising that strong families remain the foundation of national stability and child development.
Tinubu highlighted several ongoing interventions under the Renewed Hope Agenda, including investments in primary healthcare, maternal support, nutrition services, STEM education, youth empowerment and the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFund).
He stated that the administration was also strengthening laws and institutions protecting children through the review of the Child Rights Act and National Child Policy, while intensifying efforts to combat child abuse, child marriage, female genital mutilation and violence against children.
The President urged Nigerian children to reject drug abuse, cultism, cybercrime, bullying and violence, encouraging them instead to embrace discipline, education, patriotism and integrity.
“Never stop believing in yourself and never stop believing in Nigeria,” the Nigerian Leader said.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the FCTA, Asmau Mukhtar, said the Children’s Day celebration serves as a moment of reflection and renewed commitment to the welfare and future of millions of Nigerian children.
She explained that although Children’s Day is traditionally observed on May 27, President Tinubu approved the 2026 commemoration for May 25 due to the forthcoming Salah public holiday.
Wike reaffirmed the FCTA’s commitment to child protection, inclusive education and healthcare, especially for vulnerable children and children living with disabilities.
The FCT Administration also praised the support of UNICEF and other stakeholders in strengthening child protection systems and improving monitoring of orphanages and care homes within the territory.
Speaking on behalf of Nigerian children, a young representative, Jessica Nufi called on government leaders to provide free education and a safer society for children across the country.
She urged Nigerian children to reject rugs, cultism, bullying and environmental hazards while promising that Nigerian children would grow into responsible leaders.
“We ask our leaders to hand over to us a Nigeria we can be proud of, a Nigeria where every child belongs,” she said.
Jessica added that Nigerian children are ready to study hard, obey the law and contribute positively to national development.
The 2026 National Children’s Day celebration brought together government officials, development partners, students, teachers, parents and child rights advocates in a colorful ceremony marked by cultural displays, speeches and renewed commitments to the future of Nigerian children.
