By Chibuike Nwabuko
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – The Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa Onilu, has congratulated Nigerian children on the occasion of the 2026 Children’s Day celebration, describing them as the hope, strength and future of the nation.
In a statement to commemorate the annual event, issued on Tuesday, signed by the Deputy Director, Communications and Media, Paul Odenyi, made available to Precise Post, the NOA boss urged children across the country to remain committed to learning, discipline, patriotism and moral excellence as they prepare to become future leaders of the country.
The Director-General said Children’s Day serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility of government, parents, teachers, religious institutions and society at large to protect the rights, welfare and future of every Nigerian child.
According to him, the future of the nation depends largely on the values, education and opportunities provided for children today.
“Every child deserves access to quality education, safety, healthcare, guidance and a conducive environment to grow into responsible citizens,” the statement said.
The NOA DG also advised children to shun negative social influences, including crime, drug abuse, cultism, cybercrime and all forms of violence, urging them instead to embrace integrity, hard work, creativity and national unity.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to promoting civic values, national consciousness and responsible citizenship through sustained public enlightenment programmes targeted at young Nigerians in schools and communities nationwide.
The Director-General further commended parents, teachers, caregivers and development partners for their sacrifices and contributions toward nurturing children despite prevailing socio-economic challenges.
“As we celebrate our children today, let us all renew our commitment to building a Nigeria where every child can dream, thrive and succeed regardless of background, ethnicity or religion,” the statement added.
