The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting and promoting the rights of children as it commenced activities for the 2026 Children’s Day celebration with a special Thanksgiving Service held at the Chapel of Christ the Light, Alausa, Ikeja.
The service, organised by the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, formed part of activities marking this year’s Children’s Day celebration themed, “Listen to the Future, Stand Up for Children’s Rights.”
Speaking at the event, the wife of the Lagos State Governor, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, stressed the need for society to create an enabling environment where children’s voices are heard, respected, and considered in decisions affecting their lives.
Represented by Dr. (Mrs.) Olayemi Oke-Osantintolu, the First Lady said the theme of this year’s celebration serves as a reminder to governments, parents, guardians, and stakeholders of their collective responsibility to safeguard the welfare, protection, and rights of every child.
She described children as the future of society and urged stakeholders to continue supporting them through quality education, proper healthcare, moral upbringing, and opportunities that would enable them to realise their full potential.
Addressing the students, Dr. Sanwo-Olu encouraged them to remain focused, resilient, prayerful, and committed to their academic pursuits.
“Be focused, prayerful, resilient, trustworthy and steadfast in your academics. Success is built on patience, integrity and determination to excel,” she said.
She also called on parents, teachers, caregivers, and guardians to pay closer attention to the aspirations, concerns, and emotional well-being of children while instilling values that promote discipline, confidence, and responsible leadership.
The thanksgiving service featured prayers for peace, progress, and continued development in Lagos State and Nigeria, led by the Chaplain, Rev. Dr. Olurotimi Taiwo, alongside Rev. Dr. Dele Ajayi.
The event attracted education stakeholders, religious leaders, teachers, students, parents, and government officials from across the five divisions of the state.
Among dignitaries present were the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs. Abisola Dokunmu-Adegbite; Tutor-General/Permanent Secretary, Education District I, Dr. (Mrs.) Idowu Olufunke Oyetola; Chief Executive Officer of Global Education Media, Mr. Durotimi Adeboye; and directors of the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education.
The thanksgiving service officially set the tone for the state’s 2026 Children’s Day celebration, underscoring the importance of listening to children and ensuring the protection of their rights as future leaders of society.
