The wife of the Governor of Ekiti State Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, has reiterated the unwavering commitment of the state government to protecting, empowering, and creating opportunities for every child in the state to thrive and attain their full potential.
Speaking in Ado Ekiti during the 2026 Children’s Day celebration, the First Lady described every child as a precious gift and a future leader whose development must remain a collective responsibility of government and society.
Dr. Oyebanji noted that the theme of this year’s celebration, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” underscores the urgent need for collective action in securing a brighter future for children irrespective of their background.
According to her, the administration of Governor Biodun Oyebanji remains strongly committed to the holistic development of children through deliberate investments in education, healthcare, child protection, youth development, and inclusive social intervention programmes.
She explained that the state government is strengthening access to quality education, promoting safe learning environments and supporting vulnerable children and families across the state.
The First Lady further disclosed that through her Widows, Aged and Orphans Hope Support Foundation (WAOH), support and care are being extended to orphans and children in need across Ekiti State.
“We will continue to stand firmly against child abuse, neglect, exploitation, trafficking, and all forms of violence against children through the Gender-Based Violence Management Committee and other strategic interventions”. She said.
Earlier, the Speaker of the 7th Ekiti State House of Assembly, Children’s Parliament, Rt. Hon Anthony Ategbero, commended the state government for providing an enabling environment for children to excel academically and socially.
In their separate goodwill messages, the Deputy Governor, Chief Monisade Afuye, Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs Peju Babafemi, and Chairman of Ado Local Government, Chief Bosun Osaloni, urged children to embrace discipline, study diligently and remain focused in the pursuit of excellence.
Highlight of the event was the presentation of prizes to schools that distinguished themselves during the match-past parade as well as winners of the statewide secondary school symposium themed “Child Development and Good Governance.”
Outstanding pupils and students who excelled in the 2025 WAEC, NECO, and Primary School Leaving Certificate examinations were also recognised.
Special recognition was given to Miss Oluwadamilola Ooreofe Adeolu of St. Lawrence Metropolitan College, Ado Ekiti, for emerging winner of the Africa Spelling Bee competition and bringing honour to Ekiti State and Nigeria.
The gathering also celebrated the outstanding performance of Daniella Owoeye, an Ekiti indigene who recorded the highest score nationwide in the recently conducted JAMB examination.