The International Rescue Committee (IRC), in collaboration with the Department of Girl Child Education and Child Development, has commemorated Children’s Day 2026 in Katsina State with emphasis on inclusive education and child development.
The event, held on Sunday, May 25, 2026, at the Old GRA Conference Hall in Katsina city, brought together government officials, education stakeholders, development partners, and school children. Similar activities were also held in Zamfara and Sokoto states as part of IRC’s Integrated Emergency Response to Displaced Populations across the Northwest region of Nigeria.
Speaking at the occasion, the Chairman of the event and Senior Special Assistant to the Katsina State Governor on Victims of Banditry and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), Hon. Sa’idu Ibrahim, popularly known as Kogunan Jibia, commended the efforts of IRC and other development partners in supporting displaced children and improving education in the state.
He praised the participating students for their impressive debate presentations and encouraged children to remain focused on their education and future. According to him, the administration of Governor Dikko Umar Radda remains committed to improving the lives of all citizens under its “Building Your Future” agenda.
Also speaking, the IRC Desk Officer at SUBEB highlighted the importance of Children’s Day celebration, saying the event serves as a reminder of the need to protect the rights, welfare, and education of every child, especially vulnerable and displaced children. He added that inclusive education remains important in ensuring that no child is denied access to learning opportunities because of social or economic challenges.
A debate on the theme, “Inclusive Education,” was presented by students from different schools who stressed the need for equal access to quality education for all children, including those living with disabilities and children affected by displacement. Children from the IRC safe space also delivered a thought-provoking presentation calling for peace, unity, child protection, and support for education in conflict-affected communities.
The Education Secretary of Batagarawa Local Government Education Authority, Alhaji Yahaya Yusuf Tsanni, described education as the foundation for community development and urged parents and leaders to support children in achieving their dreams. Also speaking, Alhaji Abdu Iliyasu, who represented the Magajin Garin Katsina, assured residents of continued support for programs that promote children’s welfare, education, and social development in the state.
The children who participated in the program expressed happiness and appreciation for the opportunity to celebrate their day and showcase their talents. They called on government and development organizations to continue supporting children’s education and welfare. Among dignitaries present at the occasion was the Director of Child Welfare in the Department of Girl Child Education, Hajiya Zainab Abdulkarim.