Honourable Yusuf Oladeni Adebisi, the lawmaker representing Ibadan Southwest Constituency 1, has congratulated children across the constituency and Nigeria at large on the occasion of the 2026 Children’s Day celebration, urging them to remain hopeful, disciplined, and committed to education and moral excellence.
In a statement released today the lawmaker described children as the pride of every nation and the foundation upon which a greater future can be built, noting that their wellbeing, education, and security must remain a priority for government and society.
Hon. Adebisi said Children’s Day serves as an important reminder of the need to continue investing in the growth, protection, and development of young people, while also encouraging them to embrace values capable of shaping them into responsible future leaders.
He advised children in Ibadan Southwest Constituency 1 to remain focused on their studies, respect their parents and teachers, avoid social vices, and continue to pursue their dreams with determination and integrity.
According to him, hard work, discipline, humility, and the fear of God remain essential virtues for every child who desires success and relevance in life.
The lawmaker further assured constituents of his continuous support for initiatives and programmes aimed at improving educational standards, youth empowerment, and child welfare within the constituency.
“As we celebrate our children today, I encourage them to remain obedient, hardworking, and focused on becoming responsible citizens that will make their families, community, and Nigeria proud in the future,” he stated.
Hon. Adebisi also extended warm greetings to Muslim faithful as they prepare for and celebrate the Sallah season, calling on Nigerians to embrace the lessons of sacrifice, peace, love, tolerance, and obedience to Almighty Allah as exemplified in the teachings of Prophet Ibrahim.
He urged Muslims to use the festive period to pray for unity, peace, and progress in Nigeria, while encouraging citizens to continue showing love and compassion to one another irrespective of religion or ethnic background.
The lawmaker, however, expressed sadness over the recent abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, describing the development as painful, unfortunate, and disturbing. Reports said pupils and teachers were abducted during coordinated attacks on schools in the Oriire area earlier this month.
Hon. Adebisi offered prayers for the safe and immediate return of all abducted children and teachers, stressing that no child should live in fear or be denied access to education because of insecurity.
He called on security agencies and relevant authorities to intensify rescue efforts and strengthen security around schools and communities to prevent future occurrences.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the abducted children, teachers, and their families in Oriire Local Government. We pray Almighty God grants them protection, safety, and quick reunion with their loved ones. Every child deserves to learn and grow in a peaceful and secure environment,” the statement added.
Hon. Adebisi further urged Nigerians not to lose hope in the country, emphasizing the need for collective prayers, unity, and support for efforts aimed at restoring peace and security across the nation.
The Children’s Day celebration this year comes amid renewed concerns over attacks on schools and rising insecurity in some parts of the country, with stakeholders calling for stronger protection measures for children and educational institutions nationwide.
