The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting inclusion, digital literacy, and social protection for Nigerian children as part of activities marking the 2026 National Children’s Day celebration.
Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, stated this during a media briefing in Abuja ahead of the celebration themed, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child.”
According to the minister, the theme reflects the government’s determination to ensure that every Nigerian child is included and protected regardless of gender, disability, socio-economic background, religion, ethnicity, or geographical location.
She noted that the government now sees children not merely as beneficiaries of welfare programmes but as active contributors to national development, innovation, leadership, and sustainable growth.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim disclosed that the ministry has intensified implementation of the Future Now Initiative, designed to equip children with digital literacy, STEM education, innovation exposure, artificial intelligence awareness, and other future-ready skills required in a rapidly evolving digital economy.
She added that the government, through the National Children’s Parliament, is strengthening child participation and child-friendly programmes to ensure children contribute to decisions affecting their wellbeing.
Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Muyi Aina, also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to accessible and affordable healthcare for all Nigerians, especially children.
He called on parents, teachers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other stakeholders to support immunisation, nutrition, maternal and child healthcare, and child protection initiatives.
Director of Programme Operations at Save the Children Nigeria, Joshua Anar, stressed the need for stronger action to improve child protection, education, and inclusive services for every child.
Acting Chief Child Protection Officer at UNICEF, Mona Aika, reiterated the organisation’s commitment to strengthening child protection systems and preventing violence and harmful practices against children.
Country Director of Girl Effect Nigeria, Boladale Akin-Kolapo, urged stakeholders to continue building inclusive and safe systems that protect children’s rights and amplify their voices.
Deputy Speaker of the Nigeria Children’s Parliament, Ibrahim Zanna-Sunoma, emphasised the need for equitable opportunities and stronger protection for every Nigerian child.