. NOA challenges children to patriotism, good values
CHIGOZIE AMADI
As Nigeria commemorates the 2026 National Children’s Day celebration, President Bola Tinubu has described Nigerian children as the custodians of tomorrow’s promise and the pride of the Republic.
Speaking through the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, during the national celebration in Abuja, President Tinubu said, “A nation that listens to its children is one that is wisely preparing for the future.”
The President said 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 Federal 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,” emphasizing 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 said the administration is 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,” Tinubu told the children.
Earlier, 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.
The Permanent Secretary 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 identified as Jessica called on government leaders to provide free education and a safer society for children across the country.
She urged Nigerian children to reject drugs, 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.
Also, the Secretary, in collaboration with UNICEF Nigeria, has strengthened community – based child protection system, trained auxiliary social workers, and intensified monitoring of orphanages and homes across the FCT to ensure the safety and wellbeing of children.
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.
Also, the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency, NOA has congratulated Nigerian children on the historic occasion, describing them as the hope, strength and future of the nation.
In commemoration of the annual celebration, the Director-General called on children across the country to remain committed to learning, discipline, patriotism and moral excellence as they prepare to become future leaders of Nigeria.
According to the DG, Children’s Day serves as an important reminder of the collective responsibility of government, parents, teachers, religious institutions and the wider society to protect the rights, welfare and future of every Nigerian child.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Deputy Director, Communication and Media, Paul Odenyi.
“The future of our nation depends greatly on the values, education and opportunities we provide for our children today. Every child deserves access to quality education, safety, healthcare, guidance and a conducive environment to grow into responsible citizens,” he said.
The Director-General encouraged children to avoid negative social influences, crime, drug abuse, cultism, cybercrime and all forms of violence, urging them instead to embrace integrity, hard work, creativity and national unity.
The Agency also reaffirmed its commitment to promoting civic values, national consciousness and responsible citizenship through continuous public enlightenment programmes targeted at young Nigerians in schools and communities across the country.
The DG further commended parents, teachers, caregivers and development partners for their sacrifices and contributions toward nurturing children despite prevailing socio-economic challenges.
“As we celebrate our children today, let us all renew our commitment to building a Nigeria where every child can dream, thrive and succeed regardless of background, ethnicity or religion,” the statement added.
The National Orientation Agency wishes all Nigerian children a happy, inspiring and memorable 2026 Children’s Day celebration.
