Dr. Gbenga Adegbola, a retired military Colonel, renowned philanthropist, education advocate, and governorship aspirant under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oyo State, has shared a powerful message celebrating the promise of future generations while calling for deliberate societal commitment to the moral and educational development of children.
In a statement released through his media office on Tuesday, Dr. Adegbola described children as divine gifts and custodians of national heritage, affirming their critical role in shaping the destiny of any society. “I celebrate you today because you are God’s Heritage—beings created in the image of the Almighty. You are not only a pride to your families, but a foundational asset that must be nurtured, protected, and guided by the entire nation,” he stated.
A native of Saki in Oke-Ogun region of Oyo State, Dr. Adegbola has long championed causes that support child welfare, equitable access to quality education, and the reinforcement of family values. His Children’s Day message reflects a broader vision for inclusive governance and sustainable human capital development—hallmarks of his campaign platform.
Addressing parents and guardians, Dr. Adegbola emphasized the irreplaceable role of the family in laying the groundwork for future success and stability. “Train your children in the way of the Lord. Good and quality education is not a privilege, it is a right that must be guaranteed by both the state and the home. This is the only assurance of peace of mind in old age and the foundation for a virtuous society,” he said.
His message further called on government institutions and policymakers to strengthen frameworks that protect children’s rights, expand educational opportunities, and address the systemic inequalities that often marginalize young Nigerians. He also urged for renewed investments in school infrastructure, teacher training, mental health programs, and child protection laws.
Dr. Adegbola’s statement comes amid growing national concerns about the erosion of moral values, rising school drop-out rates, and the vulnerability of children to economic hardship and social vices. As a ex-military officer with a proven track record in community service and youth mentorship, his voice adds momentum to the call for child-centered policy reform in Nigeria.
“Children represent not only our future, but also our present responsibility. A society that neglects its young has already mortgaged its tomorrow. We must all be stewards of their dreams—nurturing them with wisdom, discipline, love, and the resources they need to thrive,” he added.
Dr. Adegbola’s emphasis on youth empowerment, education, and family values is expected to resonate strongly with constituents seeking visionary leadership grounded in empathy, action, and accountability.
This year’s Children’s Day celebration, with the theme “Advancing Children’s Rights for a Sustainable Future,” finds particular relevance in Dr. Adegbola’s call for a holistic, long-term investment in the nation’s youngest citizens.
Dr. Gbenga Adegbola continues to stand as a voice of hope and transformation in Oyo State’s political landscape, championing the belief that the true wealth of a nation lies in the potential of its children—and in the courage of its leaders to protect and elevate that potential.
