The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has urged Nigerian children to uphold patriotism, discipline and moral values as the country joins the rest of the world to mark the 2026 Children’s Day celebration.

The agency made the call in a statement issued yesterday by its Deputy Director, Communications and Media, Paul Odenyi, describing Nigerian children as the “hope, strength and future of the nation.”

In Nigeria, Children’s Day is observed yearly on May 27 to celebrate children and draw attention to their welfare, rights and developmental needs, while reaffirming commitment to their protection and education.

The Director-General of the NOA congratulated Nigerian children on the occasion, noting that the celebration underscored the collective responsibility of government, parents, teachers, religious institutions and society in raising responsible citizens.

He stressed that the strength of any nation depended largely on the values instilled in its younger generation.

“The future of our nation depends greatly on the values, education and opportunities we provide for our children today. Every child deserves access to quality education, safety, healthcare, guidance and a conducive environment to grow into responsible citizens,” the statement read.

The agency encouraged children across the country to remain committed to learning, discipline, patriotism and moral excellence as they prepare for future leadership roles.

It also cautioned young Nigerians against crime, drug abuse, cultism, cybercrime and violence, while urging them to embrace integrity, hard work, creativity and national unity.

According to the NOA, promoting civic responsibility and value reorientation among young people remains a core aspect of its mandate, adding that it would continue to intensify public enlightenment campaigns in schools and communities nationwide.

The agency further commended parents, teachers, caregivers and development partners for their contributions to the upbringing of children despite prevailing socio-economic challenges.