AKINWALE ABOLUWADE
The 2025 Children’s Day celebration organized in Lagos by the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV) is leaving a long lasting impact on the minds of a vast majority of children with a vibrant celebration themed “Every Right, Every Child.”
Held on May 31, 2025, at the Police College Grounds, Ikeja, the event brought together children from over 20 schools across the state, alongside traditional rulers, senior police officers, key stakeholders, and special guests.
The occasion featured a dynamic mix of fun and educational activities, including motivational talks, games, parades, debates, quizzes, and award presentations, all aimed at inspiring and educating the youth.
Representing the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Adegoke M. Fayoade of Zone 2 Lagos, described the initiative as a practical demonstration of preventive policing. He applauded the organizers for improving on past editions and urged young people to make wise choices that will shape a secure future for themselves and society at large.
He encouraged children to avoid harmful habits that could hinder their academic progress and overall well-being, and instead focus on activities that boost their productivity and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s socio-economic development.
Also speaking at the event, the Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, CP Moshood Olohundare Jimoh — represented by ACP Vera Ameh-Akpa — reiterated POCACOV’s critical role in sensitizing youths against cultism and other harmful behaviors.
National Coordinator of POCACOV, ACP Olabisi Okuwobi, highlighted the campaign’s growing influence, projecting a significant increase in the number of young people living free of vices within the next five years. “This event clearly shows that POCACOV is gaining acceptance among the youth,” she remarked.
Dr. Moses Oladimeji, Chairman of POCACOV’s Lagos chapter and founder of Mosart Art Academy, described the event as both a celebration of children and a call to embrace positive values.
Royal representative Chief Akeem Oladipupo Ojora, speaking on behalf of Oba Fatai Aremu Aromire of Ojora and Ijora Kingdom, praised the initiative as a timely intervention to help guide young people. He called on parents, teachers, and community leaders to lead by example in promoting integrity and wise decision-making.
Philanthropist and founder of the Okachi Charity Foundation, Faith Morey, also voiced her support for POCACOV’s mission, affirming her foundation’s commitment to education and crime prevention among young people.
In their responses, students described the event as fun, enlightening, and empowering. Many pledged to adopt the values promoted by the POCACOV campaign and apply them in their daily lives.
