The Edo state government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights of children, promoting quality education, and strengthening sports development across the state.
Governor Monday Okpebholo gave the assurance on Wednesday through his deputy, Dennis Idahosa, during the 2026 Children’s Day Celebration and Governor’s Cup Finale held at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City.
Addressing pupils, students, teachers, parents, school administrators, sports officials, and other guests, Okpebholo described children as the pride of Edo State and the future of the nation. He noted that the annual celebration serves as an opportunity to celebrate their dreams, talents, and potential.
Speaking on the theme of this year’s Children’s Day celebration, “Choose Kindness, Reject Bullying,” the governor said the message was timely and significant, stressing the need to create safe, supportive, and inclusive environments for children in schools and communities.
He condemned bullying in all its forms — physical, verbal, emotional, and online — stating that such behaviour has no place in society. According to him, the Edo State Government remains committed to protecting the rights and dignity of every child.
Okpebholo said his administration would continue to strengthen policies and programmes that promote child protection, discipline, mutual respect, and positive learning environments across schools in the state.
The governor urged children to embrace kindness, compassion, teamwork, and respect for one another, adding that true strength lies in empathy, good character, and mutual understanding rather than intimidation.
He also commended teachers, parents, caregivers, and school administrators for their role in nurturing children academically, morally, and emotionally, while calling for collective efforts toward raising a generation founded on peace, unity, discipline, tolerance, and excellence.
Highlighting the Governor’s Cup Finale and other sporting activities held during the celebration, including march-past displays and athletics competitions, Okpebholo described sports as an important tool for youth development, leadership, discipline, teamwork, and social integration.
He congratulated participating schools and athletes for their resilience, commitment, and sportsmanship throughout the competition and encouraged finalists to uphold the values of fair play and discipline.
The governor further assured Edo children that his administration would continue to invest in education, sports development, youth empowerment, and child welfare, stressing that sustainable development can only be achieved through deliberate investment in children and young people.
He encouraged children across the state to remain focused on their education, avoid violence and negative influences, respect their parents and teachers, and continue to serve as worthy ambassadors of Edo State.
The 2026 Children’s Day celebration attracted pupils and students from various schools across Edo State and featured cultural displays, athletics events, march-past parades, and the Governor’s Cup football finale.