CHILDREN’S DAY: FCT WOMEN AFFAIRS SECRETARIAT SPOTLIGHTS CHILD PROTECTION, INCLUSION IN THE FCT
By: Dominic Idio
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Women Affairs Secretariat has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening child protection, inclusion, and social development programmes to improve the welfare of children across the Territory.
Speaking during the 2026 National Children’s Day Celebration held at the Eagles Square in Abuja, the Permanent Secretary of the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, Dr. Asmau Mukhtar, appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR for approving the early commemoration of the event on May 25, 2026, due to the Sallah celebration scheduled to coincide with the usual May 27 date.
Dr. Mukhtar noted that the decision demonstrated the importance attached to the well-being and celebration of Nigerian children by the Federal Government.
“Ordinarily, Children’s Day is celebrated on the 27th of May. However, due to the forthcoming Sallah celebration, and considering the importance of this national occasion, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, graciously approved the commemoration of the 2026 National Children’s Day Celebration today, the 25th of May, 2026,” she stated.
The Permanent Secretary highlighted several interventions undertaken by the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat to improve the lives of children within the Territory.
According to her, the Secretariat has intensified efforts in caring for orphans and vulnerable children, strengthening community-based child protection structures, and training auxiliary social workers to ensure effective child welfare services across communities in the FCT.
She explained that the initiatives were part of broader efforts by the Administration to guarantee the safety, dignity, and development of every child in the Federal Capital Territory.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented at the event by the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr. Imaan Suleiman Ibrahim, reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to policies that promote child protection and inclusiveness.
The President stated that every Nigerian child deserves equal access to quality education, healthcare, nutrition, protection, and opportunities for personal growth, regardless of social status or location.
He stressed that inclusion must remain a key foundation for national development, adding that no child should feel excluded, unheard or forgotten.
“My dear children of Nigeria, today belongs to you. It is a day to celebrate your innocence, strength, creativity and aspirations. You are the pride of our Republic and the custodians of tomorrow’s promise,” the President said.
President Tinubu further assured Nigerian children that his Administration would continue to build a governance culture where children are not only seen, but also heard and meaningfully included in conversations that affect their future.
Also speaking, the Director, Child Development Department of the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, Dr. Idris Yahaya Attah, praised the collaboration between the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat in ensuring the successful organisation of the event.
He commended stakeholders and committee members for their dedication and effective coordination, especially following the Presidential approval to shift the celebration date.
The theme of the 2026 National Children’s Day Celebration, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion For Every Nigerian Child,” was described by participants as timely and reflective of the urgent need to prioritise child welfare and development amid growing social challenges affecting children.
A major highlight of the celebration was the colourful march-past by pupils and students from selected primary and secondary schools within the FCT, showcasing the vibrancy, talent, and promise of the younger generation.
