By: Monday Danladi, Bauchi
Sunshine International School has emerged overall best in the celebration of 2026 Children’s Day in Bauchi organized by the State Project office of the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment, (AGILE) in collaboration with the State Ministry of Education.
Also, Sa’adu Zungur Special School emerged second while Government Girls College emerged third during the march pass to comemurate the Day with the theme: “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child”.
Speaking at the event, the AGILE Project Coordinator, Ladi Mohammed, stated that, “This year’s theme, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” reminds us that every child, regardless of gender, disability, social status, location, or circumstance, deserves equal access to quality education, protection, and opportunities to achieve their full potential. The future we envision for our children must not be postponed; it must begin now through deliberate actions that ensure no child is left behind.”
She added that, “As we celebrate today, our hearts remain with all children who are victims of insecurity and conflict across our nation. We particularly remember our abducted school children and their families who continue to endure pain and uncertainty. We pray for their safe return and reaffirm our collective commitment to creating schools that are safe, secure, and conducive to learning. Every child has the right to learn in an environment free from fear.”
According to her,”The Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) in Bauchi State remains committed to supporting the Government’s efforts in expanding access to education, improving learning conditions, promoting school safety, and ensuring that girls and other vulnerable children are empowered to succeed. Through our interventions, we continue to advocate for inclusive education where every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute meaningfully to society.”
She stressed that, “As stakeholders, let us strengthen our resolve to protect children’s rights, promote their welfare, and provide them with the support they need to become responsible and productive citizens. The future of Bauchi State, and indeed Nigeria, depends on the investments we make in our children today.”
“To our dear children, this day belongs to you. Dream big, remain focused on your education, uphold good values, and never stop believing in your abilities. You are the leaders, innovators, and nation-builders of tomorrow,” She added.
While declaring the celebration opened, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Ahmed Ibrahim, said,”It is a great honor and privilege for me to be here today representing Alhaji Abdulkadir l Ibrahim, the Honourable Commissioner, as we celebrate this year’s Children’s Day. On behalf of the Honourable Commissioner, I extend warm greetings and best wishes to all the schools participating in this celebration.”
According to him,”This special day is dedicated to celebrating you—our children—your dreams, your talents, your achievements, and the bright future that lies ahead of you. Children are the greatest asset of any society. You are the leaders, innovators, and changemakers of tomorrow.”
He adds that,”Your education, well-being, and development remain our priority because investing in children is investing in the future of our communities, our state, and our nation.”
Ahmed Ibrahim added that, “The AGILE programme continues to play a vital role in creating opportunities for children, especially girls, to access quality education and develop the skills and confidence needed to succeed in life. We remain committed to supporting initiatives that empower young people and help them reach their full potentials.”
He added that,”To our dear children, I encourage you to remain focused on your studies, respect your parents and teachers, and never stop believing in yourselves. Dream big, work hard, and strive for excellence in all that you do. The future is full of opportunities, and with determination and perseverance, you can achieve your goals.”
“As we celebrate today, let us all renew our commitment to creating a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where every child can learn, grow, and thrive. Once again, on behalf of the Honourable Commissioner, I wish all our children a happy, joyful, and memorable Children’s Day celebration,” he concluded.
Also speaking, the Commissioner of Women Affairs and Child Development, Dr Lydia Tsanmani, said,”Today, while we celebrate the 2026 Children’s Day, our heart goes out to the families and communities affected by the recent abduction of school children. This reminds us that while the government is committed to protecting the lives and properties of their citizens, we also have a responsibility to protect ourselves.”
The Commissioner who was represented by an official of the Ministry said that,”Now, we encourage everyone of us to stay alert, to pray for and meet our protection and support. And to the children, you are lucky that the government is investing hugely in your development.”
She added that, “So, I would encourage you to be good ambassadors of your state, be obedient to your parents, your teachers, and you focus on your education so that one day you will be a generation that everyone will be proud of.”
As part of the celebration, the children displayed different cultural dances, drama, poem and songs renderings to the admiration of other children at the play field of the Sa’adu Zungur Model School. There was also innovation exhibition.
Exhibition of innovation by the children
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