As part of its continued commitment to a brighter future for children, the Lagos State Government, through the Ministry of Basic and Tertiary Education, on Monday marked the 2025 Children’s Day celebration in grand style at the Police College, Ikeja, with the theme: “Children: Our Future and Our Responsibility”.
In his keynote address, the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Abimbola Saliu-Hundeyin, reaffirmed government’s commitment to Youth Development while describing the event as a powerful reminder of children’s role in shaping the destiny of Lagos State and the nation at large.
“The event underscores the importance of meeting our children’s needs today to safeguard the future of our state, our country, and the world,” he said.
The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to building a #Greater Lagos by creating opportunities, addressing challenges, and providing the resources needed for children’s development across the state. “We have made significant progress in delivering quality education, improving healthcare, and creating safe spaces for children to thrive,” he stated.
“From free education and school feeding programmes to modern classrooms, digital learning tools, and teacher training, our efforts are geared toward ensuring every child, regardless of background, has access to world-class education.”
He also highlighted the government’s efforts towards strengthening child protection laws and support systems to shield children from abuse, exploitation, and neglect.
Other initiatives mentioned include improved healthcare services, vocational training, payment of external examination fees, and enforcement of child protection policies.
Sanwo-Olu charged parents, teachers, community leaders, and citizens to unite in instilling values such as honesty, respect, compassion, and hard work in children, emphasising that raising responsible citizens is a shared responsibility.
In his welcome address, the Honourable Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Tolani Balogun stressed the importance of investing in children for a better future. “Our children are our greatest assets. Investing in them means investing in our future,”.
He urged stakeholders to join hands with the government in removing barriers to education, healthcare, and overall well-being for children in Lagos.
“Under the leadership of Governor Sanwo-Olu, we are committed to ensuring every child in Lagos, regardless of background or ability, has access to quality education,” Balogun added.
Also, speaking at the event, Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende raised concerns about rising drug abuse among youth.
He advised children to steer clear of drugs, warning that substance abuse could jeopardise their future.
The week-long celebration kicked off with a youth forum, career talks, and debate competitions on opening day. Subsequently, it featured a cultural display, Jumat service and Thanksgiving, and concluded with a vibrant parade and rally on the final day.
The event stood as a testament to the Sanwo-Olu administration’s dedication to building a brighter, more inclusive future for children in Lagos State.
