By Ghazali Ibrahim
Budding Leaders Empowerment Initiative (BUDLEIN) and School In The Street (SITS) have called for greater support and inclusion for vulnerable children as they marked the 2026 Children’s Day with an outreach programme for street-connected children in Ogun State.
The event, held at the SITS Street Mobile School in Lafenwa, Abeokuta, was themed “Every Child Counts: Giving Hope Beyond the Street.” It brought together child rights advocates, healthcare professionals, educators and community leaders to celebrate, educate and support children living in difficult circumstances.
Speaking at the event, BUDLEIN Executive Director, Prof. Iyabode Kehinde, and SITS Board Member, Mrs Aminat Sanni, stressed the need to recognise the dignity, rights and potential of every child, regardless of social or economic background.
They urged stakeholders to strengthen efforts aimed at ensuring that vulnerable children have access to education, protection and opportunities for personal development.
The Ogun State Coordinator of the Child Protection Network, Barr. Damola Lapite, educated participants on their fundamental rights, including access to education, protection, healthcare and a safe environment. He encouraged the children to remain hopeful and pursue their aspirations despite the challenges they face.
Also speaking, motivational speaker Saint Kunle Agboola urged the children to embrace education, resilience and self-development, assuring them that positive change and success remain attainable regardless of their present circumstances.
As part of the programme, Dr Charles Erinle of the State Hospital, Abeokuta, led an interactive session on personal hygiene, healthy living and preventive healthcare, while Dr Dara Oseni provided practical lessons on oral hygiene, demonstrating proper tooth-brushing techniques and dental care practices.
A major highlight of the event was an interactive session during which the children shared their experiences, challenges and future ambitions. Many expressed a desire to return to school, reunite with their families or acquire vocational skills that could help them build better lives.
The organisers also provided free medical screenings and basic treatment for participants. Hygiene kits containing bathing soap, toothpaste and toothbrushes were distributed, alongside food packs that included noodles, cereal, milk and moi-moi.
In addition, a professional barber offered free haircuts, while BUDLEIN donated reading and exercise books to participating children, with the first 15 attendees receiving priority.
At the end of the programme, each participant received a token financial support to assist with their immediate needs.
The organisers said the initiative was aimed at promoting child rights, healthy living and social inclusion while reminding society that every child deserves protection, care and the opportunity to thrive.
They reaffirmed their commitment to supporting vulnerable children and advocating for policies and programmes that improve their welfare and future prospects.
