First Lady Tinubu Urges Stronger Child Protection as Africa Marks Day of the African Child
Nigeria’s First Lady, Mrs Oluremi Tinubu, has called for stronger commitment towards protecting and improving the wellbeing of African children as the continent marks the Day of the African Child 2026.
In her message, Mrs Tinubu urged governments, communities, and stakeholders to create safer environments where children can grow, learn, and develop without barriers. She stressed that child protection goes beyond preventing harm, as it also requires access to basic services that support healthy development.
The First Lady highlighted the importance of clean water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) in safeguarding children. She noted that access to these essential needs protects children from health risks and supports their dignity, education, and future opportunities.
According to her, every child deserves a safe and healthy environment regardless of their background. She called for collective action to strengthen public health systems and build child-friendly communities.
“Access to clean water, proper sanitation, and good hygiene is essential for the well-being, health, dignity, education, and future of our children,” she said.
The 2026 Day of the African Child theme focuses on ensuring universal access to water, sanitation, and hygiene for every child in Africa. The focus reflects the link between basic services and children’s rights to survival, protection, and development.
Child protection advocates have continued to emphasise that safeguarding children requires strong systems that address both immediate risks and everyday needs. Mrs Tinubu’s call reinforces the need for sustained efforts to ensure that African children grow in safe, supportive, and healthy communities.
