CAN urges urgent action to protect Nigerian children as school attacks continue
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) marks Children's Day 2026 with deep concern following recent school attacks in Oyo State where pupils and teachers were abducted by gunmen, leaving families traumatized and communities shaken. Archbishop Daniel Okoh expressed particular concern for children still held captive and their families enduring emotional agony.
Beyond insecurity, CAN highlighted broader challenges facing Nigerian children including poverty, hunger, abuse, trafficking, child labor, and limited access to quality education and healthcare. These issues are steadily denying children the stability and opportunities they deserve.
CAN called on governments at all levels and security agencies to treat school and child protection as urgent national responsibilities. The organization emphasized that every attack on schools damages public confidence, weakens national development, and leaves emotional scars shaping a generation's future. Parents, faith communities, schools, media, and community leaders were urged to work together to create environments where children can grow without fear.