President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting Nigerian children and ensuring inclusive opportunities for their growth and development.
In a message to mark this year’s Children’s Day celebration on Wednesday, the President described Nigerian children as the pride of the nation and custodians of the country’s future, stressing that every child deserves safety, education, healthcare, and the opportunity to thrive.
Tinubu said the theme of the 2026 Children’s Day celebration, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” reflects the urgent need to create equal opportunities for all children regardless of their background or circumstances.
He paid tribute to children excelling in academics, learning vocational skills, living with disabilities, and those facing difficult circumstances, but still holding on to hope.
The President, however, expressed concern over the plight of children and teachers abducted in parts of Oyo State and Borno State, noting that while other families celebrate Eid-el-Kabir, some parents remain in anguish over the whereabouts of their children.
“To those children, their parents, and their teachers, I say this as a father and your President: you are not forgotten. You are not abandoned,” he stated.
Tinubu assured grieving families that the Federal Government would continue to intensify efforts to rescue abducted children and bring perpetrators to justice.
According to him, all relevant security agencies have been directed to sustain intelligence-led rescue operations aimed at ensuring the safe recovery of abducted children and other vulnerable citizens across the country.
The President also ordered the strengthening of school protection measures in high-risk areas through improved school vulnerability mapping, enhanced collaboration between state governments and security agencies, rapid response mechanisms, and stronger community-based early warning systems.
He directed the Federal Ministry of Education, in collaboration with state governments, to deepen implementation of the Safe Schools framework to ensure that schools in vulnerable communities are better prepared to face security threats.
Tinubu further stressed the need for proper rehabilitation and reintegration support for children rescued from abduction, violence, and displacement, noting that government responsibility does not end with rescue operations alone.
“A child who returns from trauma must return to care, medical attention, counselling, education, and dignity,” he said.
The President called on parents, teachers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, transport unions, vigilantes, and the media to work closely with security agencies to protect children and prevent attacks on schools and communities.
He noted that effective information sharing and vigilance at the community level remain critical in safeguarding children from criminal elements.
Tinubu reiterated that his administration remains committed to building a Nigeria where every child can learn safely, enjoy quality healthcare, access opportunities, and pursue their dreams without fear.
He added that the government would continue investing in education, healthcare, nutrition, social protection, digital skills, and safer communities to guarantee a better future for Nigerian children.
