By Ayodimeji Olugbusi
For millions of Nigerian children, the sound of laughter on playgrounds is increasingly being replaced by fear, uncertainty and the struggle to access safe learning environments.
This concern formed the centrepiece of discussions at the 2026 International Day of Play commemorated at the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) headquarters in Maryland, Ikeja, where the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and education stakeholders called for renewed efforts to protect children’s right to learn, play and thrive.
Speaking at the event, Chief of UNICEF Field Office in Lagos, Celine Lafoucriere, expressed concern over the growing insecurity affecting children across the country, noting that attacks on schools and the abduction of pupils have continued to undermine children’s development and well-being.
According to her, recent incidents in Borno, Niger, Kebbi and Oyo states have left many children traumatised, with some victims yet to be reunited with their families.
She lamented that schools, which should serve as safe spaces for learning and growth, are increasingly becoming sources of anxiety for children and parents.
Lafoucriere noted that beyond insecurity, overcrowded classrooms and inadequate recreational facilities have deprived many children of opportunities for meaningful play, which she described as a critical component of childhood development.
“Play is not a reward for finishing work. Play is the work. No child should be denied that, not by overcrowded classrooms and certainly not by anyone with a gun,” she said.
She stressed that play contributes significantly to cognitive development, creativity, emotional well-being and social interaction, adding that children learn best when they feel safe, supported and free to explore their environment.
The UNICEF official urged governments, parents, journalists and development partners to place children’s welfare at the centre of policy and community interventions.
Responding to concerns about improving learning outcomes, UNICEF Education Specialist, Yetunde Oluwatosi, said the organisation is collaborating with government authorities to promote play-based learning and strengthen parental involvement in early childhood education.
She explained that learning should not be restricted to the classroom alone, noting that stronger links between schools and homes can enhance children’s educational development.
“It is about engaging parents at home and linking them with what is happening in the school. Children should be able to continue learning even while at home,” Oluwatosi said.
Also speaking, Executive Chairman of Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board, Hakeem Shittu, underscored the importance of creating supportive environments where children can interact freely and develop socially and emotionally.
According to him, children’s welfare and development must remain a shared responsibility among government agencies, parents and other stakeholders.
He noted that children often learn faster and express themselves more effectively when given opportunities to interact and play in conducive environments.
“When children are happy, they learn more. When they interact, it improves their communication and mental development,” Shittu said.
The event highlighted growing recognition among education stakeholders that play is not merely a recreational activity but a fundamental tool for learning, creativity and holistic child development.
Participants also stressed that ensuring safe schools, strengthening parental engagement and expanding access to play-friendly learning environments are essential steps toward helping Nigerian children realise their full potential despite the challenges confronting the education sector.
As stakeholders marked this year’s International Day of Play, the message was clear: every child deserves not only an education, but also the freedom and security to experience childhood without fear.
