The House of Representatives has marked the 2026 National Children’s Day with renewed pledges to strengthen child protection laws and expand access to education and healthcare, even as insecurity targeting schoolchildren continues to draw concern across the country.
Key Highlights:
- The House of Representatives of Nigeria pledged to strengthen child protection laws and expand access to education and healthcare on Children’s Day 2026.
- Speaker Abbas Tajudeen said investing in children is key to national development.
- The House emphasized inclusion for all children, especially those in vulnerable and conflict-affected areas.
- Lawmakers condemned attacks and abductions of schoolchildren and called for stronger security around schools.
- Spokesman Akin Rotimi said the legislature will work with agencies to improve child protection and basic services.
In a statement issued by its spokesman, Rep. Akin Rotimi, the House of Representatives, described Nigerian children as “the hope of the nation,” and urged stronger national commitment to inclusion under this year’s theme: “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child.”
The House reiterated that every child, regardless of background, disability, religion or social status, deserves access to opportunity, noting that vulnerable children in conflict-affected and underserved communities remain a priority.
Speaker Abbas Tajudeen said children represent “the heartbeat of every society,” adding that investment in education, health and character development remains central to nation-building.
However, the celebratory tone of the message came against the backdrop of persistent attacks on schools and repeated abductions of children in parts of the country, incidents the House itself acknowledged as “painful realities” confronting families.
Read Also:
- Children’s Day: Nigerians demand action over abducted school pupils
- Ezekwesili tackles political class over Children’s Day messages, demands silence from leaders
- Children’s Day 2025: Warri celebrates Isoko Children, calls for prioritization of their welfare
The legislature condemned the attacks as “cowardly acts” and called for stronger security measures around schools, improved intelligence response, and urgent efforts to secure the release of children still held in captivity.
While reaffirming its constitutional role in legislation and oversight, the House said it would continue working with relevant agencies to strengthen child protection systems and improve access to basic services.
It also urged Nigerians to play a greater role in safeguarding children, insisting that the country’s future depends on how effectively the next generation is protected and empowered.
The statement concluded with a Children’s Day goodwill message wishing Nigerian children a “joyful, safe and memorable celebration.”
