By Monday Ajogun
Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo says children remain the pride of the state and future of the nation, pointing out that Children’s Day is dedicated to celebrating their potentials.
Okpebholo, who was represented by his Deputy, Mr Dennis Idahosa, gave the commendation on Wednesday at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, during the celebration of the 2026 Children’s Day in Benin.
According to him, the 2026 event with the theme: “Choose Kindness, Reject Bullying”, is both timely and deeply significant, and reminds us that every child deserves to grow in an environment filled with love, respect, safety encouragement and equal opportunity.
“Bully in any form, whether physical, verbal, emotional, or online has no place in our schools, homes or communities.
“As a government, we remain committed to protecting the rights and dignity of every child.
“We shall continue to strengthen policies and programmes that promote child protection, discipline, mutual respect and a positive learning environment,” he said.
He stressed that they would continue to invest in education, sports, development, youths empowerment and child welfare, adding that no society can achieve sustainable progress without investing in children.
Also, the Speaker of the Edo State Children Parliament, Jonathan Omorogbe appreciated the governor for all he has been doing for the children in Edo, stating that his hard work and advocacy on important issues meant a lot to them.
“We see your commitment to keeping every child safe and cared for and we are grateful.
“This year, we give a message we cannot ignore, listen to her; her voice, her power.
“This tells us that a girl child is never too young to be wise, she’s never too young to be strong, inside her words are ideas that can build schools, heal communities and design the bridges.
“Today, we ask for something more than gifts and celebrations, we ask for your attention, we ask that you listen to the girl, who solves maths problems faster than anyone in class.
“Listen to the girl who stays after school to fix the broken fan because she wants to understand how electricity works and brings home achievable and sustainable solutions,” he said.
He appealed that the 2026 National Children’s Day should avail the children the opportunity for a renewed promise that every Edo child will grow up safe, heard, educated and feel free to dream big.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the highlight of the event was a Governor’s Cup 2026 football match which was played between Benin Technical College and Akpa Grammar School, while Idia College won the female category.
The match was decided by penalty with Benin Technical College claiming victory. (NAN)
