President Bola Tinubu has called for greater investment in Nigerian children, stressing that any nation that listens to and invests in its young people is laying a solid foundation for a stronger future.
He made the call as Nigeria commemorated the 2026 National Children’s Day with renewed commitments to inclusion, protection, education and youth empowerment.
The President, 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.”
‘’the voices, dreams and aspirations of Nigerian children must remain central to national development,’’ he said.
“A nation that listens to its children is one that is wisely preparing for the future,” the President said.
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, Nigeria’s future already exists “in every classroom, playground, displaced persons camp and rural community,” stressing that inclusion must move beyond theory to practical action.
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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”, 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 added that the administration is strengthening laws and institutions that protect children through the review of the Child Rights Act and the 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,” he said.
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the FCTA, Asmau Mukhtar, said Children’s Day serves as a moment of reflection and renewed commitment to the welfare and future of Nigerian children.
She explained that although Children’s Day is traditionally observed on 27 May, President Tinubu approved the 2026 commemoration for 25 May because of the forthcoming Sallah public holiday.
Wike reaffirmed the FCTA’s commitment to child protection, inclusive education and healthcare, particularly for vulnerable children and those living with disabilities.
The FCT Administration also commended UNICEF and other stakeholders for supporting child protection systems and improving oversight 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 children to reject drugs, cultism, while pledging that Nigerian children would grow into responsible leaders.
This year’s National Children’s Day celebration brought together government officials, development partners, students, teachers, parents and child rights advocates in a colourful ceremony marked by cultural displays, speeches and renewed commitments to the future of Nigerian children.
