The Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA) , Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu has congratulated Nigerian children on the occasion of the 2026 Children’s Day celebration, describing them as the hope, strength and future of the nation.
Issa-Onilu in a statement by Paul Odenyi, Deputy Director, Communications and Media , to mark the annual celebration, the urged children across the country to remain committed to learning, discipline, patriotism and moral excellence as they prepare for future leadership roles in Nigeria.
The Director-General noted that Children’s Day serves as a reminder of the shared responsibility of government, parents, teachers, religious institutions and society to protect the rights, welfare and future of every Nigerian child.
According to him, the nation’s future depends largely on the values, education and opportunities provided for children today.
“Every child deserves access to quality education, safety, healthcare, guidance and a conducive environment to grow into responsible citizens,” the statement said.
The NOA Director-General also advised children to stay away from negative social influences such as crime, drug abuse, cultism, cybercrime and violence, while encouraging them to embrace integrity, hard work, creativity and national unity.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to promoting civic values, national consciousness and responsible citizenship through sustained public enlightenment campaigns and programmes targeted at young Nigerians in schools and communities nationwide.
The Director-General further commended parents, teachers, caregivers and development partners for their sacrifices and contributions toward nurturing children despite prevailing socio-economic challenges.
“As we celebrate our children today, let us renew our commitment to building a better Nigeria where every child can dream, thrive and succeed regardless of background, ethnicity or religion,” the statement added.
The National Orientation Agency wished all Nigerian children a happy, inspiring and memorable 2026 Children’s Day celebration.
By; Sam Erhunmwunsee, Radio Nigeria Asaba
