Kunle Adelabu & Oladipupo Folayemi
The Ikorodu – Oga Development Association (IKODASS) on this year’s Children Day, Calls on stakeholders to build better future for every child in Ikorodu.
Alhaji Kolawole Fatai, Chairman, IKODASS made the call on Saturday, at the activities commemorating the 2026 Children’s Day Celebration, tagged, “Olori Kudirat Abosede Shotobi Children’s Day Fiesta”, held at the Ikorodu Town Hall, Ikorodu.
The annual event is being sponsored by Olori Kudirat Shotobi, wife of the Ayangbure of Ikorodu, with the Ikorodu Local Government, Ikorodu West LCDA, Ikorodu North LCDA, DoingGood Team of Sen. Tokunbo Abiru, iCare Foundation of Rep. Babajimi Benson and a host of other individuals, corporate bodies and groups.
A major feature of the celebration is the match – past which all the 25 primary schools that attended took part in, with Methodist Primary School, Oke – Eletu, Ijede LCDA, emerging 1st; Temidire Primary School, Ikorodu LG 2nd position and Aga Primary School, also from Ikorodu LG in the 3rd position.
In the dancing competition, Etunrenren Primary School , Ikorodu LG took the 1st position with young Idowu Sulaimon representing the school; Saint John Primary School, came 2nd with Esther Odupesan as representative and Methodist Primary School, Ikorodu, 3rd with Ajoke Awolesi, as its representative.
Winners of the competitions went home with monetary prizes and all participating pupils were given different gift items.
At the celebration, Mr Samuel Ifatola Anioluwapo of Togedejoye Primary School, Ikorodu West LCDA, with total score of 90% emerged as the Best teacher in English Language, Mrs Omotosho Damilola Christiana of the UAMC Eleja Primary School, Igbogbo, with a total of 100% emerged as the Best Teacher in Mathematics and Mrs Hafusat Adebimpe Badmus, Etunrenren Primary School, Ikorodu LG with total point of 70%, was honoured as the Best teacher in Science.
Each of the teachers were given N20, 000, by Olori Kudirat Shotobi.
Alhaji Kolawole, speaking on the importance of children emphasised that whatever support given to their growth and development constituted good investments for the future of the society.
”Today is a special day set aside to celebrate the priceless gifts that our children represent. They are our pride, our hope, and the future leaders of our great community, our state, and our nation. Every investment we make in our children today is an investment in a brighter and more prosperous tomorrow.
”As an association dedicated to the growth, development, and preservation of the cultural heritage of Ikorodu Kingdom, IKODASS, recognises that the future of our kingdom lies in the hands of these young boys and girls gathered here today.
”Therefore, we must continue to provide them with quality education, moral guidance, cultural values, and opportunities that will enable them to achieve their full potential,” the IKODASS Chairman said.
He stressed that the Children’s Day celebration is not just a Day for fun, but also an occasion to reflect and remember society shares responsibilities towards the children.
”This celebration is not merely an occasion for merriment and entertainment. It is an opportunity to remind ourselves of our collective responsibility towards the welfare, education, health, and security of our children. Parents, teachers, community leaders, and government institutions must work together to create an environment where every child can grow in peace, dignity, and hope.”
The IKODASS Chairman urged the children to focus on their studies and to not engage in social vices which may destroy their future.
”To our dear children, I encourage you to remain disciplined, obedient, hardworking, and focused on your studies. Respect your parents, teachers, and elders.
”Avoid negative influences and remain committed to the values of honesty, integrity, and excellence. You are the future leaders, professionals, innovators, and custodians of the rich heritage of Ikorodu Kingdom.”
While thanking the Ayangbure Palace, sponsors and others for the sustenance of the annual celebration, Alhaji Kolawole Fatai also urged them to rededicate themselves to supporting every child in Ikorodu.
”I wish to express my sincere appreciation to our royal father and mother, sponsors, clubs and Regberegbes, teachers, IKODASS executives, the Children’s Day Committee, and all partners whose contributions have made this celebration possible. Your commitment to the development of our children is highly commendable.
”As we celebrate today, let us renew our commitment to building a better future for every child in Ikorodu. Together, we can nurture a generation that will make our kingdom and our nation proud.”
Olori Shotobi, in her royal address, thanked teachers, parents and the IKODASS for their care and love for children.
She, specifically, thanked IKODASS and mothers for commemorating the Children’s Day showing them love.
”Thank you, IKODASS, for supporting this Children’s Anniversary Programme today. We thank God, and may God bless you all.
”We also appreciate all the mothers who are here today, as well as those who could not make it. We thank every one of them. My advice to all mothers is to continue taking proper care of their children, guiding them well, and helping them build a better future.”
Education Secretary, Ikorodu LGEA, Alhaji Taiwo Odumbo, speaking with THE IMPACT, said that the day is dedicated to children’s celebration, while also thanking teachers and parents.
”Today is your day. A day to celebrate you — your laughter, your curiosity, your big dreams, and the bright future you carry. You are not just the leaders of tomorrow. You are important right now.
“To our teachers and parents: thank you. Thank you for the homework checks, the school runs, the prayers, and the patience. You are raising Nigeria’s greatest treasure,” he said.
Alhaji Odumbo urged children in Ikorodu LG to dream big; to be kind and brave and enjoy themselves while protecting their own future.
Other dignitaries at the event include Deaconess Olubusola Elizabeth Isikalu, Iyaloja General Ikorodu Division; Chief Sikiru Oseni, Baale Maya Aladiye; Chief Saheed Sola Ogbara, Baale Idafa Ajenegun; Chief Kazeem Olokunola, Baale Agbala; and Chief Nurudeen Adewale among others.
