The Christian Association of Nigeria has called for urgent action to protect Nigerian children from insecurity, violence and neglect as the country marks Children’s Day 2026.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh.
Okoh said the association was celebrating the day with gratitude for the lives and potential of Nigerian children, but also with “deep concern over the growing dangers confronting them across the country.”
The association expressed concern over recent attacks on schools in Oyo State, where pupils and teachers were reportedly abducted by gunmen, leaving parents traumatised and communities shaken.
He said, “For many Nigerians, the incident has once again raised painful questions about the safety of children and the future of education in an atmosphere of worsening insecurity.”
CAN said it was “deeply troubled by the plight of children who remain in captivity and by the emotional agony their families continue to endure.”
Stressing that, “no child should have to experience fear and violence in a place meant for learning, protection and hope.”
The Christian body also highlighted the sacrifices of teachers, noting that they play critical roles beyond classroom instruction.
CAN added, “Teachers do far more than teach lessons in classrooms. They guide, protect, encourage and nurture children entrusted to their care every day.
“In many ways, they become trusted guardians and second parents to the young lives they help shape.
“The thought of teachers facing fear and uncertainty together with the children they were trying to protect should weigh heavily on the conscience of the nation.”
CAN warned that insecurity in schools threatens the country’s future, stating that, “A country where parents are afraid to send their children to school and teachers are uncertain about their safety cannot claim to be securing its future.”
The association also decried the wider challenges facing Nigerian children, including poverty, hunger, abuse, trafficking, child labour and poor access to quality education and healthcare.
It urged governments at all levels and security agencies to prioritise the protection of schools and children.
“Children must never become victims of a failing security system or repeated targets for criminal violence,” CAN stated.
The association further called on parents, faith communities, traditional institutions, schools, media organisations and community leaders to work together to protect children and strengthen moral values.
Addressing children living in difficult conditions or insecurity-hit communities, CAN encouraged them not to lose hope.
It said, “Your future remains important, your lives have value and your dreams deserve protection and support.”
The association called for renewed commitment to building a country where every child can live, learn and grow in peace, safety and dignity.
CAN reaffirmed its commitment to advocating justice, responsible leadership and policies that protect the welfare and future of every Nigerian child.
Bandits had few weeks ago attacked communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, abducting pupils and teachers from Community High School, Ahoro-Esinle and other residents.
Several persons were reportedly killed, and one of the kidnapped teachers, Mr Michael Oyedokun, was later beheaded after a video linked to the incident surfaced online.