Children’s Day: Your future depends on your choice today – First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu

—Says every Nigerian child deserves access to education

By Johnbosco Agbakwuru

ABUJA — Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the First Lady of Nigeria, warned children against choosing destructive or unrealistic paths, emphasizing that the futures they desire are shaped by the choices they make today.

During her address at the 2026 Children’s Day celebration, themed “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” Tinubu highlighted that children are not only the leaders of tomorrow but also active participants in shaping the present.

She said: “As we celebrate this year’s Children’s Day, I extend my well wishes and heartfelt love to every child across our great nation.”

“This year’s theme, ‘Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,’ reminds us that the future we desire for our children must begin today. Our children are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are active participants in shaping our present.”

“My message to children on this special day is to take ownership of today in a responsible and purposeful manner. The future you desire is shaped by the choices you make now. It is important to stay focused, make wise decisions, and use your time productively.”

“A brighter tomorrow cannot be achieved by pursuing destructive or unrealistic paths, but by building your character, discipline, and a commitment to learning and growth.”

In her speech, Tinubu reiterated that every Nigerian child deserves access to quality education, healthcare, protection, digital skills, and a safe environment where they can reach their full potential.

She urged children to aim higher and not let their surroundings dictate their limits.

The First Lady expressed her pleasure in celebrating Children’s Day with the young people, noting that the event underscores the shared responsibility to build a nation where every child is valued, protected, educated, and given the opportunity to thrive.

She explained that celebrating the children ahead of the annual Children’s Day on 27 May, which coincides with Sallah this year, demonstrates the government’s commitment to Nigerian children.

She called on everyone to create a society where no child is left behind, regardless of gender, background, ethnicity, religion, or social status.

According to her: “Children are the heartbeat of our nation and future. The dreams they carry, the ideas they share, and the talents they possess have the power to transform Nigeria for generations to come. That is why inclusion, irrespective of age, must remain at the center of our national development.”

“Every Nigerian child deserves access to quality education, healthcare, protection, digital skills, and a safe environment where they can reach their full potential.”

She assured that the government will continue to strengthen policies and programmes that protect children’s rights and expand opportunities for every child to succeed.

She told the children that President Bola Tinubu is working hard to ensure a better and brighter future for them.

“Through the Renewed Hope Agenda, Mr. President is investing in your education, health, child nutrition, children’s rights and protection. He is removing barriers to education for the girl child, expanding vocational and STEM opportunities, and ensuring that no child is left behind.”

“My charge to you today is that you should aim higher; do not allow the environment to define your limit,” she said.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu congratulated all the awardees of the National Essay Competition, noting that their “thoughtful ideas and creativity demonstrate that the future of Nigeria is bright and full of promise.”

She told the young innovators that their achievement was proof that when children are encouraged, supported, and empowered, they can achieve great feats.

“To all our dear children across the nation, I urge you to remain focused on your education, embrace discipline, respect, and love for country. Never allow your circumstances to limit your dreams. Your future begins with the choices you make today.”

“I applaud the parents, teachers, caregivers, and all stakeholders who continue to invest in the wellbeing and development of our children. Your sacrifices, guidance, and dedication play an important role in shaping the next generation of leaders, innovators, and nation-builders.”

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