Chikere hails Tinubu, Okpebholo as Edo joins the nation to celebrates Children’s Day

By Oluwatobiloba Zeal-Adepetu Kumoye 

 

 

 

The Executive Director of Sports Development and Operations at the Edo State Sports Commission, Sabrina Chikere, has commended the Federal Government and the Edo State Government for their growing commitment to the welfare, education and future of Nigerian children as the nation marked the 2026 International Children’s Day celebration.

Speaking during the Children’s Day celebration, Mrs. Chikere described Nigerian children as “the heartbeat of the nation’s tomorrow,” insisting that every child deserves quality education, protection, opportunities and a safe environment to thrive.

She particularly applauded the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu for initiating people-oriented policies aimed at improving the lives of young Nigerians.

“Our children deserve the very best from their parents, government and even the corporate sector because they are the future of this nation. What the Federal Government is doing today for the Nigerian child gives hope for a better tomorrow,” Chikere said.

She noted that the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) remains one of the landmark initiatives introduced by President Tinubu to ensure that financial limitations do not stand in the way of education for Nigerian students.

“The NELFUND initiative is one of the boldest and most impactful steps ever taken towards securing a meaningful future for Nigerian children and students. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has shown that education and youth development must remain a national priority,” she stated.

Mrs. Chikere also praised the Federal Government for what she described as proactive interventions in protecting children and strengthening the nation’s educational system, including efforts that led to the release of kidnapped school children in Kwara State and other educational reforms targeted at improving learning conditions across the country.

She further hailed Monday Okpebholo for aligning Edo State with the Federal Government’s vision for youth and child development through sports, education and social empowerment programmes.

“I must also commend Governor Monday Okpebholo for keying into these noble ideals. Edo State continues to demonstrate strong commitment towards youth growth, sports development and the protection of children’s interests. The governor’s support for initiatives that uplift young people is highly commendable,” she added.

The winsome sports administrator stressed that sports remain one of the strongest tools for steering children away from crime and social vices while helping them build discipline, confidence and successful careers.

“Sports provide children with an escape route from negative influences. Through sports, many young people can earn a living, become global stars and bring honour to Nigeria. We must continue to encourage our children to embrace sporting activities,” Chikere said.

She also used the occasion to appeal to parents and guardians to remain actively involved in the upbringing of their children by paying closer attention to their friendships, teachers and daily activities.

According to her, strong parental guidance remains critical in building responsible future leaders and protecting children from harmful influences in society.

The Children’s Day celebration across the country highlighted renewed calls for stronger investments in child welfare, education, security and sports development, with stakeholders urging governments at all levels to continue prioritising policies that secure a brighter future for Nigerian children.