By Mokobia Rita.
ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Wednesday, delivered a stirring message of hope, inclusion and responsibility as he declared that every child in Delta State deserves protection, equal opportunities and the right environment to achieve greatness regardless of background or physical condition.
The Governor, who spoke at the 2026 National Children’s Day celebration through his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, said this year’s theme, “Future Now: Promoting Inclusion for Every Nigerian Child,” was a strong national call for deliberate action toward building a society where no child feels neglected, rejected or excluded from opportunities that shape a brighter future.
Addressing pupils, students, teachers and parents at the colourful celebration, Oborevwori described children as the pride, hope and future of Delta State and Nigeria, stressing that the strength of society lies in how well it nurtures and protects its younger generation.
“Every child matters. Every child deserves equal opportunity to learn, grow, and succeed regardless of gender, background, or physical ability. No child should ever feel neglected, rejected, or left behind,” the Governor declared.
He emphasized that parents, teachers, leaders and government institutions share a collective responsibility to create an environment where children can thrive emotionally, intellectually and socially.
Oborevwori particularly advocated greater acceptance, support and empowerment for children living with disabilities and special needs, noting that true inclusion must go beyond rhetoric to practical action driven by empathy and compassion.
The Governor commended the You Matter Charity Foundation, led by the First Lady of Delta State, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, for its sustained advocacy and support for children with autism and special needs across the state.
Highlighting the limitless potential of children, Oborevwori praised 15-year-old Kanyeyachukwu Tagbo-Okeke for setting a Guinness World Record through the painting of the world’s largest art canvas aimed at creating awareness for autism.
According to him, the feat achieved by the teenager stands as proof that disability can never define destiny.
“His story shows that with love, support, and opportunity, every child can achieve greatness,” he stated.
The Governor also encouraged children across the state to remain committed to their education, respect their parents and teachers, and continue believing in their dreams despite prevailing challenges.
He assured that his administration, through the MORE Agenda, would continue prioritizing investments in education, healthcare, security and child-focused programmes designed to secure a brighter future for every child in Delta State.
“As a government, we will continue to build a Delta State where every child is protected, included, and empowered,” he affirmed.
The celebration featured colourful march-pasts by pupils and students from various public and private schools, cultural performances and the ceremonial cutting of the Children’s Day anniversary cake, creating an atmosphere filled with excitement and youthful energy.
Beyond the glamour and festivities, however, the Governor’s message resonated strongly as a passionate reminder that the true measure of leadership is reflected in how well society protects, nurtures and invests in the dreams of its children.
