Children’s Day 2025: Akpabio Opens Senate Doors to Kids

***Reaffirms Commitment to Protecting Their Future

It was a rare and heartwarming sight in the hallowed chambers of the Nigerian Senate on Tuesday as children took centre stage in a historic celebration of this year’s Children’s Day. Senate President Godswill Akpabio welcomed the young guests with warmth and optimism, reaffirming the National Assembly’s unwavering commitment to championing policies that secure their rights and unlock their full potential.

In a symbolic gesture of inclusion, the Senate temporarily suspended its rules to host the young Nigerians—signalling that the future truly belongs to them.

Speaking directly to the children seated where laws are made, Akpabio urged them to “stay away from drugs, dream big, work hard, and remain resilient.” He assured them that the lawmakers are not just passing laws for today, but building a foundation for a brighter tomorrow.

“The Senate is committed to promoting policies that safeguard your rights, encourage your dreams, and prepare you for a prosperous future,” Akpabio said.

As part of the colourful celebration, some of the children offered heartfelt presentations, thanking the lawmakers for honouring them. Laughter, applause, and even handshakes with Senators followed—turning the usually stoic chamber into a stage of joy, inspiration, and promise.

The day’s proceedings were further enriched by a motion from Senator Ireti Kingibe, Chair of the Senate Committee on Women Affairs, who led the charge in making the celebration not just symbolic, but substantive.

The Senate passed key resolutions aimed at transforming child welfare across the country. Lawmakers called on the Federal Ministry of Education, alongside its state counterparts and the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), to accelerate efforts to provide free, compulsory, and quality education for every Nigerian child.

In a bold push for systemic change, the Senate urged the introduction of a National Skills for Children Initiative—a game-changing programme that would integrate ICT literacy, crafts, creative arts, entrepreneurship, and problem-solving skills into the primary school curriculum.

The Red Chamber also mandated its Committees on Basic Education, Youth Development, and Legislative Compliance to conduct a nationwide audit of child-focused programmes and submit actionable policy recommendations.

Recognising that change begins at all levels, the Senate encouraged the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to mark Children’s Day with tangible acts—like commissioning new schools, initiating mentorship schemes, and strengthening school feeding and health programmes.

To back these plans with resources, the lawmakers urged the Ministry of Finance and Budget Planning to scale up funding for child development and education in the 2026 national budget.

In her remarks, Senator Kingibe summed up the urgency and spirit of the day: “Our children are the heartbeat of Nigeria’s future. Their well-being is not a favour—it is a national obligation. Let us rise to it.”

With a chamber filled with bright smiles and echoing laughter, Children’s Day 2025 became more than a celebration—it was a renewed pact between the nation’s present leaders and its future ones.