By Justina Auta
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting inclusion, digital literacy and social protection for Nigerian children as part of activities for the 2026 National Children’s Day celebration.
Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, stated this at a media briefing ahead of the 2026 National Children’s Day celebration, with the theme, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child” on Friday in Abuja.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim, said the theme reflected government’s commitment to ensuring inclusivity regardless of gender, disability, socio-economic background, religion, ethnicity or geographical location.
“The Nigerian child is no longer viewed merely as a passive recipient of welfare interventions, but as an active participant in national transformation, innovation, leadership, and sustainable development,” she said.
She added that the ministry also intensified implementation of the “Future Now Initiative,” to equip children with digital literacy, STEM education, innovation exposure, artificial intelligence awareness, and future-ready skills required for participation in an increasingly digital global economy.
According to her, through the National Children’s Parliament, the ministry has equally continued to strengthen child participation and child-friendly programmes to ensure children contributed to discussions and decisions affecting their wellbeing.
“This will ensure that children are not merely beneficiaries of policies, but active contributors to discussions and decisions affecting their lives and wellbeing,” she said.
Dr Muyi Aina, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer, National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA), reaffirmed government commitment to accessible and affordable quality healthcare for all Nigerians.
“We must recommit ourselves to building a healthier, safer, and more inclusive Nigeria where no child is left behind.
“We call on parents, caregivers, teachers, traditional rulers, faith leaders, the media, and all stakeholders to continue supporting immunisation, adolescent health, nutrition, maternal and child health, and child protection initiatives,” he said.
Mr Joshua Anar, Director of Programme Operations, Save the Children Nigeria, stressed the need to move beyond commitment to actions in strengthening child protection, education, participation, and inclusive services for every child.
” Today’s event is not only a celebration of children, but also a reminder of our collective responsibility to create an inclusive Nigeria where every child has equal opportunity to thrive,” he said.
Mona Aika, Acting Chief Child Protection, United Children’s Fund (UNICEF), reaffirmed to strengthening child systems, preventing violence and harmful practices, and ensuring children’s rights in every setting.
Mrs Boladale Akin-Kolapo, Country Director, Girl Effect Nigeria, said,” let us recommit ourselves to building inclusive, safe, and responsive systems and communities that meet the needs of every child.
” Let us continue to amplify children’s voices, protect their rights, and create opportunities that allow them to succeed and contribute meaningfully to society.”
Ibrahim Zanna-Sunoma, Deputy Speaker of Nigeria Children’s Parliament, emphasised the need to invest in equitable opportunities, break barriers of exclusion and create a Nigeria where every child was seen and protected.
“Anything for us without us is not truly for us; let them not fail in their responsibility to protect, nurture and empower every child,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Vivian Ihechu
