May 27, 2025, Nigeria joined the rest of the world in celebrating one of the most important days on our national calendar, Children’s Day. It is a moment of joy, reflection, and renewed commitment to the well-being of the most precious members of our society. It is a day set aside to honour the dreams, rights, and potential of every Nigerian child.
Children represent the hope of our nation. In their laughter lies joy; in their curiosity, innovation; and in their innocence, a purity that reminds us of what is good and just. As we celebrate this year’s Children’s Day, we are reminded that the future we seek as a people depends greatly on the care, guidance, and opportunities we provide for our children today.
This day is not only a celebration but a wake-up call. It reminds us of our collective responsibility to protect every child from harm, neglect, ignorance, and inequality. We must continue to work towards a society where children are not only safe but are also given the chance to flourish. Every child, regardless of their background, deserves access to quality education, proper healthcare, nutritious food, and a supportive environment to grow into responsible, confident, and productive citizens.
The theme of this year’s celebration, “Investing in Our Children for a Better Future,” could not be more relevant. Nigeria is blessed with one of the youngest populations in the world. This should be our greatest asset. However, without deliberate investment in education, child protection, healthcare, and youth empowerment, this potential may never be realized.
Across the country, there are still millions of children who wake up each day without the certainty of a meal, who walk long distances to access basic education, and who live in communities plagued by violence, displacement, or poverty. We must not turn a blind eye. These children need more than our celebration, they need our action.
Let us use this day to renew our pledge to do better. Parents and guardians must provide the love, discipline, and moral foundation that shape young minds. Teachers must be supported as they impart knowledge and values. Communities must unite to protect children from abuse and exploitation. And the government must continue to design and implement policies that prioritize child welfare as a critical part of national development.
On this special day, we celebrate the resilience of Nigerian children, those who, despite hardship, continue to learn, dream, and hope. We salute their courage, and we commit to doing more to support them.
To every Nigerian child, I say: You are valuable. Your dreams are valid. The future belongs to you. Grow in confidence, stay curious, and know that we believe in you. You are not just the leaders of tomorrow; you are already the inspiration of today.
Happy Children’s Day 2025.
