Nigeria-US based child advocate, author, speaker and parenting mentor, Oluwatoyin AY, has raised a strong voice against the growing insecurity affecting children and families across Nigeria, calling on government authorities and stakeholders to take urgent steps to protect the nation’s most vulnerable citizens.
In a passionate message marking Nigeria’s Democracy Day on June 12, Oluwatoyin questioned the meaning of national celebration amid persistent concerns over the safety of children, particularly those living in communities affected by insecurity and attacks on schools.
Her message highlighted the emotional and human cost of insecurity, stressing that children affected by violence should not be treated as mere figures in reports or temporary news headlines.
“What exactly are we celebrating when our children are still in captivity?” she asked, noting that behind every story of insecurity is a child with dreams, a family with hopes, and a future that must be protected.
The child advocate urged the Federal and State Governments to strengthen security measures, improve intelligence systems, protect schools and communities, and provide adequate support for families impacted by insecurity.
According to her, protecting children should be a national priority because the safety of young people determines the future direction of the country.
She also called on influential Nigerians, including celebrities, journalists, activists, religious leaders, politicians and Nigerians in the diaspora, to use their platforms to demand accountability and advocate for safer environments for children.
“Children are not collateral damage. Children are not expendable. Children are a sacred trust,” Oluwatoyin stated, emphasizing that true leadership must be measured by how effectively it protects vulnerable citizens.
She warned that insecurity is not only affecting children’s safety but also threatening education, confidence and opportunities for millions of young Nigerians.
The advocate called for collective responsibility, urging Nigerians not to normalize violence against children and to continue pushing for stronger child protection systems.
“Until every child is safe, our work is not finished. Until every child returns home, our celebration remains incomplete,” she said.
Oluwatoyin AY concluded by reaffirming her commitment to child advocacy and encouraging Nigerians to stand together in the fight for safer communities and a better future for every child.
Bring Back Our Children. Protect Our Future.