Group Photograph of celebrants
By Samuel Ogude
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Edo/Delta Area Command, on Friday celebrated the 2026 Children’s Day with a colourful event for children in Delta State, urging parents, teachers and government institutions to invest more in the education, protection and moral development of children. The event, held at the Command’s Barracks, Airport Road, Effurun, in Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State, was organised by the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA) and featured cultural displays, educational presentations, music, games and other entertaining activities.
Speaking at the celebration, the Comptroller of the Nigeria Customs Service, Edo/Delta Area Command, Judith Kanu, described children as Nigeria’s greatest hope and future leaders, stressing the need for stakeholders to provide them with the right support and guidance. According to her, Children’s Day is not merely a day for entertainment but an opportunity for society to reflect on its responsibility towards shaping the future generation.
Comptroller Judith Kano delivering her address on Friday at ceremony
Her words:”Children’s Day is more than a celebration. It is an opportunity to recognize the value of our children and our collective responsibility to provide them with the right guidance, education, protection and opportunities they need to thrive.” Kanu noted that children represent hope, innovation and the promise of a brighter future for the nation, adding that they must be properly guided to realize their full potential.
Her words: “Our children represent hope, innovation and the promise of a brighter tomorrow. The future belongs to those who prepare for it today through hard work, discipline and integrity.” The Customs Area Comptroller charged the children to remain committed to their studies, respect their parents and teachers, cultivate good values and avoid negative influences that could jeopardize their future.
Her words: “The future is very bright for you. You can make it brighter by preparing for it today through education and good character.” She expressed delight at the children’s conduct during the event, describing it as evidence of sound moral upbringing and a promising future. Kanu further reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Customs Service to supporting initiatives that promote child welfare and youth development alongside its statutory responsibilities of revenue generation and border security.
Her words: “As officers of the Nigeria Customs Service, we understand the importance of service, patriotism and responsibility. We have a duty to create a safe and supportive environment where our children can grow into responsible citizens who will contribute positively to national development,” she added. She also commended parents, guardians, teachers and caregivers for their sacrifices in raising the next generation of leaders, entrepreneurs and public servants.
Earlier in her welcome address, the Coordinator of the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), Mrs Musa Muhammed, described children as precious gifts whose dreams and talents must be nurtured. She explained that the celebration was designed to appreciate children, inspire them and create lasting memories filled with happiness, learning and love. Her words: “Children are leaders, innovators and nation-builders. They are the foundation of the society we desire tomorrow. Therefore, it is our collective responsibility as parents and guardians to nurture them with discipline, quality education, moral guidance and compassion.”
Mrs Muhammed encouraged the children to believe in themselves, remain focused on their education and work towards achieving their dreams. “Today is your day. We celebrate your dreams, talents and uniqueness. Remain focused on your studies, respect your parents and elders, and always believe in yourselves,” she advised.
Cultural display
Also speaking, the Customs Mess Coordinator, Mrs Amaka Agboma, emphasized the importance of reading and education in building successful futures, describing knowledge as one of the greatest assets a child can possess. “There is a saying that readers are leaders. When you read, you gain knowledge that helps you build your future. Education can take you to places where wealth alone cannot reach,” she said. Agboma also urged parents to closely monitor their children’s activities and friendships, stressing that proper guidance remains critical to raising responsible and productive citizens.
“We must know the kind of friends our children keep and make ourselves their friends too. Together, we must ensure they become successful in whatever they choose to do,” she added.The event climaxed with the cutting of the Children’s Day cake amid cheers from the children and guests. It also featured cultural dance performances, educational presentations, music and games that added colour and excitement to the celebration.