President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described Nigerian children as custodians of the nation’s future, stressing that the country’s progress depends on how well it protects, educates and empowers its younger population.
He made the statement through the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, during the 2026 National Children’s Day celebration held in Abuja.
Tinubu said a nation that listens to its children is deliberately investing in its own future, noting that this year’s theme, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” underscores the need to ensure that no child is left behind due to disability, social status, background or location.
According to him, Nigeria’s future is already reflected in classrooms, playgrounds, internally displaced persons camps and rural communities, adding that inclusion must go beyond policy statements to practical implementation.
The President reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to expanding access to quality education, healthcare, nutrition, digital opportunities and social protection for children across the country.
He also announced that 2026 has been designated as the “Year of Families and Social Development,” describing strong family structures as essential to national stability and child development.
Tinubu highlighted ongoing reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, including investments in primary healthcare, maternal support, nutrition programmes, STEM education, youth empowerment initiatives and the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFund).
He further disclosed that government is reviewing the Child Rights Act and National Child Policy, while strengthening efforts to combat child abuse, child marriage, female genital mutilation and other forms of violence against children.
The President urged children to shun drug abuse, cultism, cybercrime, bullying and violence, and instead embrace discipline, education, patriotism and integrity.
“Never stop believing in yourself and never stop believing in Nigeria,” he told the children.
Earlier, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the FCTA, Asmau Mukhtar, said the celebration offered an opportunity for reflection and renewed commitment to child welfare.
She explained that although Children’s Day is traditionally marked on May 27, the 2026 celebration was held on May 25 due to the upcoming Salah public holiday.
Wike reaffirmed the FCT Administration’s commitment to child protection, inclusive education and healthcare, particularly for vulnerable children and children living with disabilities.
The FCTA also commended UNICEF Nigeria and other development partners for supporting child protection systems and improving oversight of orphanages and care homes in the territory.
A child representative, Jessica, speaking on behalf of Nigerian children, called on government to ensure free education and a safer environment for children across the country.
She urged children to avoid drugs, cultism and bullying, and pledged that they would grow into responsible future 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.
The event featured cultural performances, speeches and goodwill messages from government officials, development partners, teachers, parents and child rights advocates.
