Honourable Yusuf Oladeni Adebisi, the lawmaker representing Ibadan Southwest Constituency 1, has joined millions of Nigerians in celebrating children across the country on the occasion of the 2026 Children’s Day celebration, urging young people to remain focused on education, discipline, and moral values despite the challenges confronting the nation.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Hon. Adebisi described children as the future leaders and greatest assets of society, stressing that every child deserves access to quality education, protection, peace, and opportunities to achieve their dreams.
The lawmaker commended parents, teachers, caregivers, and stakeholders who continue to nurture and guide children toward responsible living, noting that the future of Nigeria depends largely on the investments made in the younger generation today.
According to him, Children’s Day should not only be a moment of celebration but also a period of reflection on the collective responsibility to protect children from insecurity, violence, abuse, and all forms of societal threats.
Hon. Adebisi encouraged children in Ibadan Southwest Constituency 1 to remain hardworking, respectful, and committed to their academic pursuits, while urging them to stay away from social vices capable of destroying their future aspirations.
He further assured the children of his continued commitment to supporting policies and initiatives that will improve educational development, youth empowerment, and child welfare within the constituency and beyond.
While rejoicing with children on their special day, the lawmaker expressed deep concern over the recent abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the incident as painful, heartbreaking, and unfortunate. Reports indicate that several pupils and teachers remain in captivity following coordinated attacks on schools in the area earlier this month.
Hon. Adebisi offered prayers for the safe and immediate return of all abducted children and teachers, calling on security agencies and relevant authorities to intensify rescue efforts and strengthen the protection of schools across the country.
He stated that no child should be denied education or subjected to fear because of insecurity, adding that the safety of Nigerian children must remain a top priority for government at all levels.
“As we celebrate our children today, our thoughts and prayers are with the abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government. We pray Almighty God grants them safety and speedy reunion with their families. Every Nigerian child deserves to live in peace and pursue education without fear,” the statement read.
Hon. Adebisi also urged Nigerians to continue praying for peace, unity, and stability in the country, while encouraging citizens to support efforts aimed at safeguarding children and restoring confidence in the nation’s educational system.
The Children’s Day celebration comes amid growing concerns over rising cases of attacks and abductions involving schoolchildren in parts of Nigeria, with stakeholders calling for stronger protection measures for students nationwide.
