First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu has called on Nigerians to listen more deliberately to children, stressing that their perspectives are essential in building a safer, more compassionate nation.
Gatekeepers News reports that in her message commemorating World Children’s Day 2025, themed “Listen to Children: My Day, My Rights,” she said the UNICEF-developed theme serves as a reminder that children deserve adequate platforms to share their thoughts, experiences, and aspirations.
“Our children are not only the leaders of tomorrow; they are active contributors to the world we are shaping today,” she said.
“When we truly listen to them, we understand more clearly how to build a safer, more inclusive and nurturing environment.”
Senator Tinubu described respect for children’s rights as central to national development, noting that societies thrive when children are raised with confidence, hope, and the freedom to realise their full potential.
She urged families, schools, institutions, and policymakers to strengthen their commitment to safeguarding the well-being of every Nigerian child.
“As we mark this day, let us reaffirm our collective responsibility to ensure that no child is left unheard or unprotected,” she added.
The First Lady congratulated all Nigerian children on the occasion and wished them a joyful celebration.
Why World Children’s Day Matters
World Children’s Day is celebrated globally on November 20 to promote and protect the rights of children as outlined in the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
This year’s theme, “Listen to Children: My Day, My Rights,” emphasises the need for adults and institutions to uplift children’s voices and include their priorities in decisions that affect their lives. It also highlights that every child has universal rights — including the rights to protection, education, and participation.
The message is being amplified through songs, classroom activities, and creative learning platforms designed to encourage children to express their needs and dreams while reminding adults to provide meaningful avenues for engagement.
World Children’s Day ultimately advocates for protection, equality, participation and well-being for children everywhere.
In Other News: First Lady Urges Women to Harness Digital Skills
Meanwhile, Senator Tinubu has encouraged Nigerian women to embrace humble beginnings and leverage digital skills to build stronger economic futures.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 2025 Women ICT Training and Empowerment Programme, organised by NITDA in partnership with the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) at the Presidential Villa, she said the steady growth of the scheme reflects the country’s increasing commitment to preparing women for opportunities in a technology-driven world.
