The Christian Association of Nigeria, CAN, has said it is marking this year’s Children’s Day with a mixture of gratitude for the lives and potential of Nigerian children and deep concern over the growing dangers confronting them across the country.
In a statement signed by its President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, CAN said that this year’s celebration comes at a painful time for many families following recent attacks on schools in Oyo State, where pupils and teachers were abducted by gunmen, leaving parents traumatised and communities shaken.
He noted that for many Nigerians, the incident has once again raised painful questions about the safety of children and the future of education in an atmosphere of worsening insecurity.
CAN said it is deeply troubled by the plight of children who remain in captivity and by the emotional agony their families continue to endure, adding that no child should have to experience fear and violence in a place meant for learning, protection and hope.
He said, “We are equally concerned for the teachers caught in these tragic situations alongside their pupils. Teachers do far more than teach lessons in classrooms. They guide, protect, encourage and nurture children entrusted to their care every day. In many ways, they become trusted guardians and second parents to the young lives they help shape.
“The thought of teachers facing fear and uncertainty together with the children they were trying to protect should weigh heavily on the conscience of the nation.
“A country where parents are afraid to send their children to school, and teachers are uncertain about their safety, cannot claim to be securing its future.
“Beyond insecurity, millions of Nigerian children continue to struggle with poverty, hunger, abuse, trafficking, child labour and limited access to quality education and healthcare. These challenges are steadily denying many children the stability, dignity and opportunities they deserve.”
CAN called on governments at all levels and security agencies to treat the protection of schools and children as an urgent national responsibility, adding that Children must never become victims of a failing security system or repeated targets for criminal violence.
“We also urge leaders to recognise that every attack on a school damages public confidence, weakens national development and leaves emotional scars that can shape the future of a generation.
“Parents, faith communities, traditional institutions, schools, media organisations and community leaders must also work together to protect children, strengthen moral values and create environments where young people can grow without fear.
“To every Nigerian child living under difficult conditions or in communities troubled by insecurity, CAN encourages you not to lose hope. Your future remains important, your lives have value, and your dreams deserve protection and support.
“As the nation marks Children’s Day 2026, may this occasion awaken a deeper sense of responsibility among leaders and citizens alike to build a Nigeria where every child can live, learn and grow in peace, safety and dignity.”
The Christian Association of Nigeria said it remains committed to advocating justice, responsible leadership and policies that protect the welfare and future of every Nigerian child
