Medical and educational experts have issued a stark warning, calling on Nigerian authorities to prioritize the holistic well-being of school-aged children, citing the profound health and psychological consequences of the nation's ongoing security challenges.
Insecurity's Toll on Young Minds and Bodies
The urgent appeal was made during a recent event organized by Christ College (The Royal Acres) in Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos. Dr. Raphael Olanrewaju, a medical doctor and Founder of Mother and Child Hospital in Lagos, emphasized that the pervasive insecurity is not just a safety issue but a direct threat to children's health.
He stressed that government at all levels must increase their focus on the general wellness of young learners. "The consequences of insecurity currently plaguing our country may likely have effects on the psyche of children," Dr. Olanrewaju noted. He urged for immediate government attention to this critical aspect of child welfare.
Expanding on his point, the doctor clarified that true health extends beyond physical condition. "To be in a good state of health is more than being physically well; it involves mental and emotional stability. And this has lots to do for our children," he concluded.
A Concerted Effort for Child Uphringing
Echoing the need for a collaborative approach, Pastor Samuel Olatunji, Chairman of Christ College, shared insights from his decades-long career in education, which began in 1975. He framed child-rearing as a serious collective duty, not a superficial endeavor.
"The task of bringing up children is beyond a show," Pastor Olatunji stated. "It is an effort that demands concerted cooperation from parents, teachers, the school, and the immediate environment."
He highlighted the challenging role of parenting and acknowledged the supportive role of the community. "Parenting is not an easy task and our neighbours around and within contribute to the success of this our primary duty as teachers," he said, reaffirming his lifelong commitment to providing children with the best foundation for life.
A Call for Gratitude and Joy
The event, which also served as a carol service, was held under the theme: "A season of gratitude, songs of joy." Addressing this theme, Pastor Leke Johnson encouraged the children to cultivate a daily habit of gratitude to God.
Drawing from his personal experiences, the clergyman shared testimonies of divine intervention in his life, attributing breakthroughs during impossible situations to the power of praise and joyful songs.
The gathering, which took place on 3 January 2026, saw a diverse attendance that included parents, teachers, and invited officers from the police and other para-military organizations, underscoring the community-wide concern for the issues discussed.
