President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the protection, education and welfare of Nigerian children, pledging intensified efforts to rescue children and teachers currently in captivity and strengthen safety measures in schools nationwide.
In a statement marking Children’s Day 2026, President Tinubu celebrated Nigerian children across all walks of life, describing them as the “pride of the Republic” and “custodians of tomorrow’s promise.” He said the day serves as a reminder of the nation’s responsibility to invest in the future of its young population.
He noted that this year’s theme, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” underscores the urgency of ensuring that every child has access to opportunity, protection and care, stressing that the future is already unfolding and must be shaped deliberately.
The President expressed concern over reports of children and teachers abducted in parts of Oyo and Borno States, stating that affected families should be with their loved ones during the celebration. He assured them that they have not been forgotten.
“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 said.
Tinubu pledged that government efforts would continue until all abducted children are safely returned and those responsible are brought to justice. He disclosed that security agencies have been directed to intensify coordinated, intelligence-led rescue operations nationwide.
He also announced strengthened school protection measures in high-risk areas, including updated vulnerability mapping, improved coordination between security agencies and state governments, rapid response systems for schools, and enhanced community-based early warning mechanisms.
According to him, the Federal Ministry of Education, in collaboration with states, has been tasked with deepening the implementation of the Safe Schools framework, ensuring clear reporting structures, responsibilities and emergency procedures for vulnerable schools.
The President further emphasized the need for community involvement in safeguarding children, urging parents, traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups and local security actors to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities promptly.
He added that survivors of abduction and violence would receive comprehensive reintegration support, including medical care, counselling, education and psychosocial assistance, stressing that rescue operations must be followed by sustained care.
Reiterating his administration’s broader agenda, Tinubu said government is investing in education, healthcare, nutrition, social protection and digital skills to ensure that every Nigerian child can learn and grow in a safe environment.
He concluded by assuring children of his government’s commitment to their future, saying their safety, education and dreams remain a national priority.
