First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has urged Nigerian children to always aim higher and not allow their environment to define their limits.
She gave the charge at the 2026 National Children’s Day celebration held at the State House, Abuja.
Explaining why the celebration was held earlier than the usual May 27 date, the First Lady said it was due to the date coinciding with the 2026 Eid El Kabir celebration.
“Celebrating them ahead of the annual Children’s Day on 27th May, which coincides with Sallah celebration this year, shows the importance we place on the children of this nation,” she said.
She noted that the event was not only a celebration of children but also a reminder of the shared responsibility to build a nation where every child is valued, protected, educated, and given the opportunity to thrive.
Speaking on the theme, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion For Every Child,” Senator Tinubu emphasized that every Nigerian child deserves access to quality education, healthcare, protection, digital skills, and a safe environment to reach their full potential.
She also called for a society where no child is left behind, regardless of gender, background, ethnicity, religion, or social status, stressing that inclusion must remain central to national development.
The First Lady also highlighted ongoing efforts under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, noting investments in education, health, child nutrition, child rights, and protection, as well as expanded opportunities in vocational and STEM education.
She congratulated winners of the National Essay Competition and young innovators, urging them to remain focused, disciplined, and patriotic.
Top winners received N1 million, second-place winners got N500,000, while third-place winners received N250,000. Laptops and tablets were also distributed to participating children to support learning and digital skills.
In their remarks, the Minister for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajia Imaan Suleiman, said ongoing reforms under the current administration reflect strong commitment to the welfare of women and children, including the review of the Child Rights Act to address emerging challenges.
The Country Representative of UNICEF, Ms. Wafaa Abdulatef, called for continuous engagement with children beyond commemorative events, while the Acting Country Director of the World Bank, Mathew Verghis, described children as the nation’s most valuable asset.
The Executive Secretary of the National Primary Health Care Development Authority, Dr. Muyi Aina, reaffirmed government commitment to strengthening child nutrition and healthcare delivery.
Highlights of the event included a Science and Technology Exhibition showcasing innovations by students, as well as an interactive session on Early Childhood Development with the First Lady.
