As Nigeria marks this year’s Children’s Day celebration, a philanthropist, Prince Olatunji Olusoji, has reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to advancing child rights and quality education, calling on leaders and stakeholders to prioritise the nation’s youth.
In a heartfelt message delivered during the commemorative event, Prince Olusoji, the Asiwaju of Ayere Kingdom, and advocate for child welfare, underscored the critical role children play in the country’s future. “Our children are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the hope of today. Investing in their well-being and education is not optional, it is a national imperative,” he said.
Through his initiative, the Prince Olatunji Olusoji Foundation (PROOF), Olusoji has facilitated numerous educational initiatives aimed at empowering disadvantaged youths. To date, PROOF has sponsored free Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) registrations for over 1,000 students and supported the enrollment of many others for the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE).
“Providing access to exams is only one part of the solution,” Prince Olusoji noted. “We must adopt a holistic approach that includes mentorship, emotional support, career guidance, and long-term scholarships to truly uplift our children.”
The Ppilanthropist, who blends the responsibilities of traditional leadership with modern social advocacy, also called for urgent reforms in the nation’s education policies and stricter enforcement of child rights laws. He lamented the growing neglect of vulnerable children and the gaps in policy implementation.
“Our leaders must understand the gravity of their responsibility towards children,” he stated. “A safe, nurturing environment isn’t a luxury — it’s a right. The time to act is now.”
PROOF’s work goes beyond financial aid. Its programs focus on long-term developmental goals, aiming to provide children with the tools they need to thrive in today’s competitive world. Prince Olusoji encouraged other individuals, organizations, and government agencies to emulate this approach.
“As a nation, we cannot afford to sideline the very generation that will steer our future. Neglecting children today is the fastest way to destroy the hopes of tomorrow,” Olusoji warned.
