The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to providing inclusive and quality education for every Nigerian child, declaring that no child should be denied access to learning opportunities because of disability, social background, or economic condition.
The assurance was given by the Minister of Education, Maruf Alausa, during activities commemorating the 2026 Children’s Day celebration in Abuja. The minister hosted children drawn from different schools and backgrounds at the headquarters of the Federal Ministry of Education, alongside disability advocate and actress Dera Osadebe.
According to the ministry, the event was organised to amplify the voices of Nigerian children while promoting national efforts toward inclusive education, child protection, and youth development. The gathering also highlighted the growing call for improved access to education for children living with disabilities and other vulnerable groups across the country.
Speaking during the celebration, Alausa described Children’s Day as more than a ceremonial event, noting that it serves as a reminder of the nation’s responsibility to invest in the future of its children through education, equal opportunities, and social support systems.
“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 stated.
He stressed that the Federal Government remains committed to policies that will expand access to quality learning opportunities and create safer and more inclusive learning environments for children nationwide. According to him, education remains one of the strongest tools for national development and social transformation.
The minister particularly praised Osadebe for her advocacy on behalf of children living with disabilities and autism, noting that her work has continued to promote conversations around empathy, inclusion, and equal access to education.
Alausa said the government recognises the challenges faced by many children with special needs in accessing education and social opportunities, adding that deliberate efforts are being made to strengthen inclusive education policies in schools across the country.
“Dera’s courage and passion reflect the resilience and brilliance that exist in millions of Nigerian children. Her voice continues to inspire important conversations around inclusion, empathy, and equal opportunity for every child,” he added.
The minister explained that the current administration’s education agenda aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises child development, youth empowerment, expanded school access, and improved learning outcomes for Nigerian children.
He further encouraged children to remain confident, pursue their ambitions, and develop their talents despite prevailing social and economic challenges, assuring them that the government would continue to support initiatives that promote academic growth and personal development.
“Children are at the heart of our nation’s future, and we must continue to create opportunities that allow them to learn, grow, and succeed,” the minister said.
The celebration comes amid growing concerns over insecurity, out-of-school children, and unequal access to education in parts of the country. Several advocates have continued to call on government authorities to strengthen child protection systems and improve learning conditions in public schools.
The Federal Ministry of Education reiterated that it would continue to implement policies and programmes aimed at protecting the rights and well-being of Nigerian children while promoting inclusive education, safe learning spaces, and equal opportunities for all.
