By Ahmed Ahmed 

The Bauchi State Project Office of the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE), in collaboration with the State Ministry of Education, has reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive education and child development during the 2026 Children’s Day celebration.

Speaking at the event held at Sa’adu Zungur Model School, the AGILE Project Coordinator, Mrs. Ladi Mohammed, said the theme, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” underscored the need to provide equal opportunities for all children regardless of gender, disability, social status, or location.

She urged children to remain focused on their education and believe in their abilities, describing them as future leaders, innovators, and nation-builders.

Mohammed also expressed concern over insecurity affecting schoolchildren across the country, particularly abducted students, and called for collective efforts to ensure safe and secure learning environments.

Representing the Commissioner for Education, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Ahmed Ibrahim, described children as society’s greatest asset and reiterated the government's commitment to their education, well-being, and development.

He commended the AGILE programme for expanding access to quality education, especially for girls, and encouraged children to pursue their dreams through hard work and determination.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Child Development, Dr. Lydia Tsanmani, urged communities to remain vigilant amid security challenges while supporting government efforts to protect children.

Highlights of the celebration included cultural dances, drama presentations, poetry recitals, songs, and an innovation exhibition. 

Government Day Secondary School, Bauchi, emerged overall winner in the march-past competition, while Sa’adu Zungur Special School and Government Girls College placed second and third respectively.