Tinubu Assures Nigerian Children of Inclusion, Protection
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring that every Nigerian child enjoys equal opportunities, protection and access to quality social services, regardless of background or location.
Speaking at the 2026 National Children’s Day celebration held at Eagle Square in Abuja, the President said children remain the nation’s greatest asset and must never be neglected or marginalized.
Represented by the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, President Tinubu stressed that the Federal Government would continue to prioritise policies and programmes aimed at improving the welfare, education and future of children across the country.
He noted that the Renewed Hope Agenda places strong emphasis on child development through investments in healthcare, nutrition, digital learning and family support initiatives designed to empower the younger generation.
The President also urged children to steer clear of social vices such as cultism, drug abuse, cybercrime and violence, advising them instead to embrace discipline, patriotism and hard work as tools for building a brighter future.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary and Acting Mandate Secretary of the Women Affairs Secretariat, FCTA, Hajiya Asmau Mukhtar, said the celebration underscored the Federal Government’s dedication to promoting the wellbeing and rights of children nationwide.
She explained that although Children’s Day is traditionally marked on May 27 annually, this year’s celebration was held ahead of schedule due to the upcoming Eid-el-Kabir festivities.
Hajiya Asmau Mukhtar further disclosed that the Women Affairs Secretariat, working in partnership with UNICEF Nigeria, had intensified child protection efforts within the Federal Capital Territory through the training of social workers and enhanced monitoring of orphanages and care homes.
She commended the commitment of President Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu to child welfare and inclusion, noting that activities lined up for the celebration reflected the administration’s dedication to protecting and empowering Nigerian children.
Speaking on behalf of Nigerian children, a young participant, Jessica, appealed to the government to guarantee free education and create a safer environment for children nationwide
She also encouraged children to reject bullying, cultism, drug abuse and other negative behaviours, while pledging that Nigerian children would continue to contribute positively to national growth and development.
The celebration, themed “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” attracted government officials, development partners, caregivers and children from different parts of the country.
Activities at the event included colourful march pasts, cultural performances and goodwill messages from stakeholders.
