The National Orientation Agency on Tuesday called on Nigerian children to uphold patriotism, discipline and moral values during the 2026 Children’s Day celebration, saying the country’s future depends on the example set by its youngest citizens. The appeal came in a statement issued by Deputy Director of Communications and Media Paul Odenyi.
The agency described Nigerian children as the hope, strength and future of the nation, and used the annual May 27 observance to press a message that went beyond celebration. The Director-General congratulated children on the 2026 Children’s Day and said the occasion was a reminder that government, parents, teachers, religious institutions and society all share responsibility for raising responsible citizens.
The NOA said Children’s Day is set aside in Nigeria to honour children and draw attention to their welfare, rights and development needs, and said the day also reinforces national commitment to children’s protection and education. In its statement, the agency said the foundation of a strong nation lies in the values instilled in the younger generation, and that every child deserves access to quality education, safety, healthcare, guidance and a conducive environment to grow into responsible citizens.
That message came with a sharper warning. The agency urged young Nigerians to remain committed to learning, discipline, patriotism and moral excellence as they prepare for future leadership roles, and advised them to steer clear of crime, drug abuse, cultism, cybercrime and violence. It also encouraged integrity, hard work, creativity and national unity, saying promotion of civic responsibility and value reorientation among young people remains central to its mandate.
The NOA said it would continue to intensify public enlightenment programmes in schools and communities across the country, while commending parents, teachers, caregivers and development partners for what it called their efforts in nurturing children despite prevailing socio-economic challenges. It said it wants a Nigeria where every child can dream, thrive and succeed regardless of background, ethnicity or religion, and wished children a peaceful and memorable 2026 Children’s Day celebration.
For the agency, the point of the day was not just to mark a calendar date. It was to restate a national bargain: if children are to carry the country forward, then the state and the adults around them must give them the education, protection and values that make that possible.
