The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has called for urgent action to protect Nigerian children from insecurity, violence, and neglect as the country marks Children’s Day 2026.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the association celebrated the potential of Nigerian youth while expressing deep concern over the growing dangers confronting them.
CAN specifically highlighted the trauma gripping communities following recent bandit attacks in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, where pupils and teachers were abducted from Community High School, Ahoro-Esinle, and other residents were killed.
The tragedy was compounded by the gruesome beheading of one of the kidnapped teachers, Mr. Michael Oyedokun, after a video linked to the incident surfaced online.
Archbishop Okoh stressed that the plight of children remaining in captivity, along with the emotional agony endured by their families, raises painful questions about the future of education in an atmosphere of worsening insecurity.
The association lamented that no child should have to experience fear and violence in a place meant for learning, protection, and hope.
CAN also highly commended the sacrifices of teachers, describing them as trusted guardians and second parents who do far more than teach lessons.
The body noted that the harrowing thought of educators facing terror alongside the children they try to protect should weigh heavily on the conscience of the nation.
Warning that the current security crisis threatens Nigeria’s future, CAN stated that a country where parents are afraid to send their children to school and teachers fear for their safety cannot claim to be securing its tomorrow.
Beyond the immediate threat of violence, the Christian body decried the wider systemic challenges plaguing Nigerian children, including rampant poverty, hunger, abuse, trafficking, child labor, and a severe lack of access to quality education and healthcare.
In light of these compounding crises, CAN urged governments at all levels and security agencies to step up and prioritize the protection of schools and children.
The association emphasized that children must never become victims of a failing security system or repeated targets for criminal violence.
To reverse this trend, CAN called for a unified front, urging parents, faith communities, traditional institutions, schools, media organizations, and community leaders to collaborate in safeguarding children and strengthening societal moral values.
Concluding with a message of resilience, the association reached out to children living in difficult conditions and insecurity-hit communities, encouraging them not to lose hope and reminding them that their dreams deserve protection.
CAN reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to advocating for justice, responsible leadership, and policies that shield the welfare of every Nigerian youth.
The body called for a renewed national commitment to building a country where every child can live, learn, and grow in peace, safety, and dignity.
