President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to take shared responsibility for child protection, stressing that safeguarding children cannot be left solely to the government. The president made the remarks in his message to mark Children’s Day, observed annually on May 27.
Tinubu described children as the foundation of the nation’s future and said their welfare, education, and safety require a collective effort from families, communities, religious institutions, schools, civil society, and the private sector. “The responsibility of raising and protecting our children is a sacred duty that belongs to all of us,” he said. “Government can create policies and provide infrastructure, but the daily work of nurturing responsible, healthy, and safe children happens at home and in our communities.”
He noted that Nigeria continues to face challenges affecting children, including out-of-school numbers, malnutrition, child labor, and exposure to violence and exploitation. Addressing these issues, he said, requires more than legislation and budget allocations. It demands active involvement from parents, guardians, traditional rulers, and community leaders to ensure that children grow up in environments free from abuse and neglect.
The president highlighted ongoing government initiatives aimed at strengthening child protection, including the implementation of the Child Rights Act across states, expanded school feeding programs, and investments in basic healthcare. He added that the administration is working to improve access to quality education and vocational training to give young Nigerians practical skills for the future.
Tinubu also urged parents to be more present and vigilant in their children’s lives, warning against the dangers of neglect, substance abuse, and harmful cultural practices. He called on schools to reinforce moral and civic education, and on religious leaders to use their platforms to promote values that protect children’s dignity and rights.
On security, the president reiterated his administration’s commitment to tackling kidnapping, banditry, and other threats that endanger children, particularly in conflict-affected areas. He said security agencies are being equipped and coordinated to respond faster to incidents involving minors….See More
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