Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has called for renewed commitment to ensuring that every African child has access to clean water, proper sanitation, and hygiene facilities, describing them as fundamental rights essential to children’s health, dignity, education, and overall development.
In a message commemorating the 2026 Day of the African Child, observed across the continent on Tuesday, June 16, the First Lady joined millions of Africans in advocating for policies and actions that prioritize the welfare and rights of children.
The 2026 observance is themed, “Ensuring Universal Access to Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene for Every Child in Africa.”
Mrs. Tinubu noted that access to clean water and sanitation remains one of the most critical challenges affecting children across Africa, with far-reaching implications for their health, safety, and future opportunities.
According to her, every child, irrespective of social status, geographical location, or economic background, deserves access to basic amenities that enable them to grow, learn, and thrive in a safe and healthy environment.
“Access to clean water, proper sanitation, and good hygiene is essential for the well-being, health, dignity, education, and future of our children,” the First Lady stated.
She emphasized that guaranteeing access to water, sanitation, and hygiene services is not merely a developmental goal but a moral responsibility that requires collective action from governments, development partners, communities, and citizens.
The First Lady urged stakeholders across the continent to intensify efforts toward building child-friendly communities and strengthening public health infrastructure capable of meeting the needs of young people.
“I believe all hands must be on deck to build child-friendly communities, strengthen public health systems, and create safe, healthy environments where every child can thrive and reach their full potential,” she said.
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Mrs. Tinubu further stressed that investments in water, sanitation, and hygiene infrastructure would not only improve public health outcomes but also enhance educational attainment, reduce disease burdens, and promote the overall well-being of children.
The Day of the African Child is commemorated annually on June 16 to honour the courage of students who participated in the 1976 Soweto Uprising in South Africa and to highlight the rights, welfare, and development of children across the African continent. Soweto Uprising
As governments and child rights advocates mark this year’s event, Mrs. Tinubu’s message adds to growing calls for accelerated action to close the gaps in access to safe water and sanitation services, particularly in underserved and vulnerable communities.
She concluded by wishing children across Africa a meaningful celebration and reaffirming the importance of creating conditions that allow every child to live, learn, and succeed.
“Happy Day of the African Child 2026,” the First Lady said.
The annual observance continues to serve as a platform for promoting policies and initiatives aimed at safeguarding the rights of children and ensuring that they enjoy the opportunities necessary to reach their full potential.