• Foundation urges children to speak up against abuse
The Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, has called on parents, educators, and leaders to build a more caring and supportive society where no child is left behind.
 
In an address commemorating the 2026 National Children’s Day celebration yesterday, Oborevwori, who was represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, emphasised the profound significance of this year’s theme, ‘Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child’.
 
He stressed that every child, regardless of gender, background, or physical ability, deserves an equal opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed.
 
The governor said: “Children’s Day is a time to honour and appreciate our children, who are the pride, hope, and future of our dear state and nation.
 
“This year’s theme, ‘Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,’ reminds us that every child matters and deserves equal opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed, regardless of gender, background, or physical ability; no child should ever feel neglected, rejected, or left behind.”

ALSO, the Founder of EDGE Foundation, Casmir Ozuruigbo, has urged children to speak up against sexual abuse, bullying and molestation, warning that silence often leaves victims trapped in pain and fear.
 
Ozuruigbo gave the advice yesterday during a Children’s Day sensitisation programme organised by EDGE Foundation in collaboration with St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Oshodi, Lagos.
 
Speaking on the theme, “Speak Up: Learning to Say No, Confident and Proud of Who You Are,” Ozuruigbo told the children that abuse could happen anywhere and to anyone, stressing that they must never remain silent when violated.
 
“There is no better time or more important time to celebrate children than today. What we are doing here is not just celebrating Children’s Day, it is to empower the children, educate them and guide them to understand that child abuse and bullying exist,” he said.
 
He said children should not be exposed to sexual abuse, child labour, molestation or early marriage, adding that the programme was organised to help them understand why such acts are harmful and why they must speak out.
 
Ozuruigbo told the children that their voices, bodies and feelings matter, urging them to develop confidence and learn to defend themselves against abuse and intimidation.