27/05/2026
INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN'S DAY 2026.
A Tribute to Our Missing Children in Oriire Local Government, Oyo State.
As the world celebrates International Children's Day 2026, a day set aside to honor the innocence, dreams, and rights of every child, our hearts remain heavy with concern for the children of Oriire Local Government Area in Oyo State who are still being held captive by kidnappers.
Today, while millions of children laugh, learn, play, and enjoy the warmth of their families, some innocent children remain separated from their loved ones, deprived of the safety, care, and freedom that every child deserves. Their absence is a painful reminder of the insecurity that continues to threaten the future of our nation.
We stand in solidarity with their parents, guardians, relatives, and communities who continue to endure sleepless nights, endless prayers, and unimaginable anguish. We share in their hope and refuse to forget these precious children whose lives matter and whose safe return remains our collective responsibility.
Children are not statistics; they are the future leaders, innovators, teachers, doctors, and nation-builders of tomorrow. Every child deserves protection, education, love, and the opportunity to grow in a secure environment. As we celebrate this special day, let us renew our commitment to safeguarding every Nigerian child and strengthening efforts to end kidnapping, violence, and all forms of abuse against children.
May this International Children's Day serve as a call to action for government authorities, security agencies, community leaders, and all citizens to work tirelessly until every missing child is safely reunited with their family.
- Dr. Demola Okeowo.
Founder, DOF.