FG Launches 2026 Children’s Day Celebration, Calls for Inclusive Opportunities for Every Nigerian Child
By Chizoba Njaka
The Federal Government has formally inaugurated the 2026 Children’s Day celebrations under the theme “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child.” In the opening remarks, the government called for increased access to quality education, healthcare, and digital skills for all children, irrespective of socio-economic status.
The national event, held at the State House, Abuja, was spearheaded by the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development. It reaffirmed that every child is entitled to the support and protection required to realize their full potential.
In her address, the First Lady urged children not to allow their present circumstances to constrain their future ambitions. She further stated that leaders at all tiers of government had committed to strengthening family support policies and to enforcing child protection laws more rigorously across the country.
During the ceremony, outstanding students from various parts of Nigeria were recognized for excellence in the National Essay and Science and Technology competitions. The top awardees received cash prizes of up to N1 million, alongside laptops and tablets, aimed at advancing their digital literacy and learning opportunities.
Government officials and development partners, including UNICEF, jointly called for greater investment in youth empowerment, family-centered support systems, and the comprehensive implementation of child protection frameworks. They emphasized that safeguarding children’s rights and fostering inclusion are fundamental to building a safer, healthier, and more prosperous Nigeria for future generations.