Children’s Day 2026: CAIDOV Calls For Release of Children in Captivity Nationwide

“Urges Action to Protect and Free Nigerian Children”

The Centre Against Injustice and Domestic Violence (CAIDOV) joins the rest of Nigeria and the world in celebrating the 2026 Children’s Day, honoring the rights, dignity, and future of every child in Nigeria

In a statement marking the occasion, CAIDOV extended warm felicitations to children across the country, describing them as the embodiment of hope, innocence, and national renewal. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to defending the rights of children to grow up in safe, nurturing, and violence-free environments.

However, CAIDOV expressed deep concern over the continued captivity of children in various parts of the country due to kidnapping, armed conflict, and criminal activity.

“On this Children’s Day, we make an urgent call for the immediate and unconditional release of all children held in captivity across Nigeria,” said Gbenga Soloki, Executive Director of CAIDOV. “No child should mark their day in fear, isolation, or bondage. Their freedom, safety, and right to education and family life must be non-negotiable.”

CAIDOV called on federal and state governments, security agencies, traditional leaders, and civil society to intensify coordinated efforts to rescue, rehabilitate, and reintegrate affected children. The organization emphasized that protecting children is a national responsibility and a direct investment in Nigeria’s future.

“Protecting our children is protecting the future of Nigeria. Their lives matter, their voices matter, and their freedom cannot wait,” Soloki added.

CAIDOV remains committed to advocacy, intervention, and partnership in the fight against injustice and domestic violence affecting children and vulnerable persons nationwide.

Gbenga Soloki
Executive Director

Centre Against Injustice and Domestic Violence (CAIDOV)