Saturday, June 6, 2026

The Sun Nigeria

No child will be left behind in development agenda, Lagos assures

Lagos State Government

By Lukman Olabiyi

Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to building an inclusive society where every child, irrespective of background, gender, ability or socio-economic status, has equal opportunities to thrive and achieve their full potential.

The assurance was given during the 2026 Children’s Day celebration held at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja, where government officials, parents, teachers, caregivers, development partners and hundreds of children gathered to commemorate the annual event and advocate for children’s rights and welfare.

Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende, described children as future leaders, innovators and nation builders, whose talents and aspirations represent the foundation of a prosperous Nigeria.

Addressing participants on the theme, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” Ogunlende said the celebration highlighted the need for governments, institutions and communities to create an environment where every child feels valued, protected and empowered to succeed.

According to him, the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu remains committed to implementing policies and programmes that promote child welfare, education, protection and social inclusion, particularly for children living with disabilities and those in vulnerable situations.

He noted that the state’s child-focused interventions are designed to remove barriers that hinder children from accessing opportunities necessary for their development and meaningful participation in society.

The commissioner added that Lagos State has continued to strengthen child protection systems, expand access to quality education and deepen social inclusion initiatives to ensure that no child is left behind in the state’s development agenda.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Mrs. Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, described children as the bedrock of the state’s future and a vital component of sustainable development.

The celebration featured cultural performances, educational activities and interactive sessions aimed at celebrating children’s achievements and reinforcing the importance of inclusion in national development.