The Catholic Bishop of Oyo Diocese, Most Rev. Emmanuel Badejo, has urged Nigerians to take decisive steps to protect children who are exposed to abduction, trafficking, abuse and neglect, stressing that mere celebration is not enough.
He made the appeal on Wednesday during an interview in Ibadan to mark the 2026 Children’s Day celebration, themed “Child Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child.”
The bishop said the occasion should go beyond ceremonies and instead provoke reflection, prayer and meaningful action for the welfare of vulnerable children across the country.
According to him, many children in Nigeria are unable to celebrate the day due to insecurity, exploitation and neglect, describing their situation as deeply troubling.
He called on Nigerians to “pray, act and speak up” for children who have been abducted, trafficked or subjected to various forms of abuse, adding that urgent intervention is needed.
Badejo described the situation as a national crisis requiring immediate attention from all segments of society, including government and citizens.
He specifically appealed for the safe return and protection of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Ogbomoso, referencing recent attacks on schools in Oyo State where lives were lost and several people were affected.
He stressed that both leaders and citizens share responsibility in addressing insecurity, urging authorities to intensify efforts to secure schools and communities.
The bishop also advised parents to remain alert and prioritise the safety of their children both at home and in educational environments.
He called on religious leaders to use their influence to promote truth, justice and advocacy for victims of abuse, while urging civil society and community actors to work together in strengthening child protection policies.
According to him, the future of the nation depends largely on how well it safeguards its children today.
Badejo prayed for divine intervention and renewed commitment from all stakeholders to ensure a safer environment for every child in Nigeria.
He further encouraged collective action from all faiths and institutions to confront insecurity, hunger and deprivation affecting children, insisting that only concrete action—not words—can make celebrations meaningful.