My dear children of Nigeria, beloved parents, teachers, and people of Oyo State and Nigeria,
On this Children’s Day 2026, I greet you with love, hope, and a heart that feels both joy and sorrow.
Today is a day to celebrate you – the laughter in our homes, the brilliance in our classrooms, and the promise of Nigeria’s future. You are precious in the sight of God, and your dreams are the foundation upon which our nation will rise. To every child here today: you matter, your voice matters, and your future is worth fighting for.
But as we celebrate, my heart cannot be silent about our sons and daughters, and our dedicated teachers, who are still missing in Oyo State. To the families waiting and praying: I stand with you in this painful gap. Your pain is our pain. We have not forgotten your children, your teachers, your loved ones. We cry with you, and we will not stop speaking until every missing child and teacher is found and brought safely home.
To the government, security agencies, and all stakeholders in Oyo State and across Nigeria: let the protection of our children and educators be our highest priority. A nation that cannot keep its children safe cannot call itself secure. I urge swift, transparent, and compassionate action. Let no child be forgotten, and let no teacher be sacrificed for simply doing their duty.
To all parents and teachers still in fear: you are not alone. The Church, the community, and people of goodwill across Nigeria are with you. May God grant you strength, comfort, and unshakable hope.
So today, even in the midst of sorrow, I call on all Nigerians to recommit ourselves. Let us build schools that are safe, communities that are vigilant, and a nation where no child goes to bed in fear. Let us teach our children not only in books, but in courage, faith, and love for one another.
May this Children’s Day renew our resolve.
May it remind us that every child deserves to learn in peace, and every teacher deserves to teach without fear.
Happy Children’s Day to every child in Nigeria.
May God protect you, heal our land, and bring our missing ones home.
God bless Oyo State.
God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Signed:
Joy Klinton Wellington
Office of Former Presidential Candidate
Peace Advocate, Clergywoman & Public Affairs Commentator
Bishop Professor Funmilayo Adesanya-Davies
Federal Republic of Nigeria
Nigeria
