Kingsley Ohens reporting
The Governor of Edo State, , has reaffirmed the commitment of his administration to the protection of children’s rights, the advancement of quality education, and the sustained development of sports across the State.
The Governor made this known during the 2026 Children’s Day Celebration and Governor’s Cup Finale held on Wednesday at the , where he was represented by the Deputy Governor, .
Addressing pupils, students, teachers, parents, school administrators, sports officials, and invited guests at the colourful event, Governor Okpebholo described children as the pride of Edo State and the foundation upon which the future of the nation rests. He noted that Children’s Day remains a significant occasion dedicated to celebrating the dreams, talents, aspirations, and limitless potential of every child.
Speaking on the 2026 Children’s Day theme, “Choose Kindness, Reject Bullying,” the Governor described the message as timely and deeply relevant in today’s society. According to him, the theme underscores the urgent need to build safe, supportive, and inclusive environments for children both within schools and across communities.
Governor Okpebholo stressed that bullying in all its forms — physical, verbal, emotional, psychological, or online — remains unacceptable and has no place in any civilized society. He assured that the Edo State Government would continue to strengthen policies, programmes, and institutional frameworks aimed at safeguarding the rights, dignity, and overall wellbeing of children across the State.
The Governor further stated that his administration remains committed to promoting discipline, mutual respect, positive learning environments, and child-centered educational reforms capable of nurturing responsible future leaders.
He encouraged children to embrace the values of kindness, compassion, tolerance, teamwork, and respect for one another, emphasizing that true strength is demonstrated not through intimidation or hostility, but through empathy, understanding, and good character.
Governor Okpebholo also commended teachers, parents, caregivers, and school administrators for their continued sacrifices and dedication towards the academic, moral, and emotional development of children. He called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to raise a generation built on peace, discipline, unity, excellence, and responsible citizenship.
Highlighting the significance of the Governor’s Cup Finale and other sporting activities featured during the celebration, including athletics competitions, cultural displays, and march-past parades, the Governor noted that sports remain a vital instrument for youth empowerment, leadership development, discipline, teamwork, social integration, and talent discovery.
He congratulated all participating schools, athletes, and finalists for their resilience, commitment, and outstanding sportsmanship throughout the competition, while urging them to continue to uphold the principles of fair play, discipline, and excellence.
The Governor further reassured Edo children that his administration would continue to invest heavily in education, youth empowerment, sports development, and child welfare programmes, maintaining that sustainable development can only be achieved through deliberate and strategic investment in children and young people.
He also advised children across the State to remain focused on their education, avoid violence and other 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 an array of activities, including cultural performances, athletics events, march-past displays, and the Governor’s Cup football finale.
The statement was issued by , Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State, on Wednesday, May 27, 2026.
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