Founder of the Love for Health Foundation (LHO) and psychologist, Dr. Ademola Yusuf-Haroun, has called on the government to intensify efforts to secure the release of children and teachers still being held by kidnappers, urging authorities to put politics aside and focus on protecting innocent lives.
Dr. Yusuf-Haroun made the call against the backdrop of heightened concerns over children’s safety following the recent kidnapping of school children in Ibadan, Oyo State.
According to him, every child deserves a safe environment where they can learn, grow, and achieve their dreams without fear.
Dr. Yusuf-Haroun who spoke during a Children’s Day celebration organized by the Love for Health Foundation for pupils of Igbeyinadun and Adaranijo Primary Schools in Bariga, Lagos also stressed the need for greater investment in child welfare, quality education, and mental health support, noting that safeguarding children should remain a national priority.
“While we celebrate Children’s Day, we must remember those children who are unable to be with their families because of insecurity. Every child deserves protection, education, and the opportunity to thrive,” he said.
Designed to promote happiness, creativity, and personal development among the children, the programme brought together hundreds of pupils who participated in games, music, dance performances, educational activities, and gift presentations.
The event provided an opportunity for the children to interact, showcase their talents, and enjoy a memorable celebration in a safe and supportive environment.
Teachers and parents who attended the programme commended the foundation for the initiative, describing it as a timely intervention that brought joy, encouragement, and hope to the children.
Many of the pupils expressed excitement as they took part in the various activities organized for them. Educational materials, refreshments, and souvenirs were also distributed during the event.
The celebration ended with renewed calls for stronger measures to protect children across Nigeria and ensure that schools remain safe spaces for learning and development.
Dr. Yusuf-Haroun maintained that protecting children is a shared responsibility requiring the commitment of government, communities, parents, and other stakeholders.
As Nigeria marks another Children’s Day, the message from the Love for Health Foundation remains clear: every child matters and deserves a safe, secure, and promising future.
