FG Promises Equal Opportunities, Inclusive Education for Children on 2026 Children’s Day

The Federal Government has restated its commitment to delivering inclusive and quality education for every Nigerian child, as schools marked the 2026 Children’s Day celebration.

Minister of Education, Maruf Alausa, made the pledge on Wednesday while hosting a group of schoolchildren and disability rights advocate, actress Dera Osadebe, at the Federal Ministry of Education headquarters in Abuja.

A statement released by the minister’s media aide, Ikharo Attah, said the gathering was designed to amplify children’s voices and strengthen national efforts toward inclusive education and child development.

Alausa described Children’s Day as a reminder of the country’s duty to invest in the future of its young citizens through education, well-being and equal opportunity.

“Today is about celebrating the strength, creativity, and limitless potential of our children. Every Nigerian child deserves to feel seen, heard, encouraged, and supported to achieve their dreams regardless of background or circumstance,” the minister said.

He commended Osadebe for her work in promoting awareness and inclusion for children living with disabilities and autism, noting that her advocacy continues to drive conversations around empathy and equal rights.

The minister said the celebration aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which focuses on child development, inclusive education, youth empowerment and expanded access to quality learning nationwide.

He urged Nigerian children to remain confident, develop their talents and contribute meaningfully to society, assuring them of the government’s backing in building an enabling environment for learning and growth.

The ministry further reaffirmed its resolve to protect children’s rights and welfare through policies and programmes that promote inclusive education, safe learning spaces and equal opportunities across the country.