Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, says President Bola Tinubu has placed the wellbeing of Nigerian children at the centre of his administration’s long-term development agenda.
Bagudu stated this in Abuja on Thursday at the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) World Children’s Day celebration. He maintained that, despite the country’s economic and security challenges, Nigerian children still have a promising future.
His remarks came amid national concern over Monday’s abduction of students from Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Kebbi State.
Reassuring the young audience, Bagudu said the President remains committed to investments that will shape children’s lives—particularly in education and child-focused development programmes.
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“I want to assure our children that despite the challenges of the moment, a great future lies ahead of them. We want them to surpass our achievements,” he said. “President Asiwaju Tinubu has consistently championed investment in children and teacher education, and he remains committed to giving them the support they need to thrive.”
He also called for prayers for the abducted students and other children held in captivity worldwide, stressing that child abduction should be treated as a crime against humanity that requires international cooperation.
Respect for Children’s Rights Key to a Fair Society — First Lady
In her message marking World Children’s Day 2025, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu urged Nigerians to recommit to protecting the rights and dignity of every child.
The theme for this year, “Listen to Children: My Day, My Rights,” she noted, reinforces the need to give children an active voice in matters that affect them.
“It reminds us that respecting children’s rights and protecting them are essential for building a fair and compassionate society,” she said.
“Our children are not only the leaders of tomorrow; they are active participants in shaping the world today. When we listen to them, we gain clearer insight into how to build a safer, more inclusive, and nurturing society.”
She encouraged Nigerians to work collectively toward ensuring that every child grows up with hope, confidence, and the freedom to reach their full potential.
