By Khadija Kubau
Stakeholders at the 2026 Children’s Day celebration in Kaduna State have emphasized the need to promote child welfare through quality education, digital learning, protection and recreational activities aimed at improving the wellbeing of children across the country.
The Kaduna State Team Lead on the Nigeria Learning Passport (NLP), Mr. Philip Mamman, encouraged children to embrace digital learning, describing the platform as an innovative educational tool designed to make learning accessible, engaging and enjoyable for learners at different levels.
He stated this during an interactive session with children, held at Airforce Institute of Technology Kaduna
Mamman explained that the Nigeria Learning Passport provides children with access to curriculum-based educational materials through Android phones, tablets and laptops.
He noted that the platform contains more than 16,000 learning contents, including educational videos, audiobooks, games and science simulations for learners from pre-primary to senior secondary school levels.
According to him, Kaduna State is among the 24 states currently benefiting from the initiative.
He urged parents to encourage their children to make use of the platform at home, adding that Airtel subscribers can access the service without data charges.
Also speaking, Child Protection Specialist with UNICEF in Kaduna, Dr. Wilfred Mamah, called for stronger commitment toward fulfilling promises made to children, particularly in the areas of education, healthcare, nutrition and protection.
Dr. Mamah noted that although Nigeria has made progress through the adoption of the Child Rights Law in many states, insecurity continues to deprive many children of access to education and safety.
He stressed that effective implementation of child protection policies remains critical to improving the lives of children.
He further disclosed that UNICEF is partnering with the government at different levels to support immunisation, nutrition, birth registration, psychosocial support and access to education for vulnerable children, especially those affected by insecurity and displacement.
He also highlighted ongoing efforts to expand digital learning opportunities through the Nigeria Learning Passport.
In his remarks, the Managing Director of Du Maries Day Production, Mr. Phillips Oluwagbemiga, described the theme of the celebration, “Every Child Has the Right to Play,” as a reminder that play is essential to the emotional, physical and mental development of every child.
He said the organisation remains committed to promoting programmes that educate, inspire and empower children and young people, while urging stakeholders to continue protecting the rights and dignity of Nigerian children.
Representing the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), Hajiya Fatima Adamu stressed the importance of recreational activities for children, describing play as vital to their happiness, health and overall development.
She urged parents to allow children participate in outdoor games and social activities, noting that interaction and recreation contribute positively to children’s confidence and wellbeing.
Similarly, the Public Relations Officer of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), Kaduna State Command, Mrs. Lubabatu Bello, said denying children the opportunity to play could negatively affect their emotional and intellectual growth.
According to her, children who engage in recreational activities are more likely to grow into confident and socially active individuals, adding that play remains a fundamental right that should not be neglected by parents and guardians.
