By Oluwatoyin Mathnuel
The 2025 Children’s Day celebration will remain a memorable experience for over 300 pupils , students from Lagos State government schools and private institutions, as the Lagos State Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) hosted the event in grand style for the first time.
Despite the early morning showers, the children—full of enthusiasm—kicked off the day with a parade inspection led by the “One-Day Sector Commander,” Temitope Popoola, an alumnus of one of the participating schools.
In a friendly, cool weather atmosphere, school representatives dressed in neatly ironed uniforms, berets, and holding school banners marched past in an orderly parade. They saluted the One-Day Commander, FRSC officials, and the gathered spectators in a security-style match past.
The Lagos Sector Commander, CC Hamzat Ganiyu Kehinde, in his address, emphasized the importance of safety consciousness among pupils and students. He reiterated the purpose of inaugurating Road Safety Clubs in schools—to “catch them young” and instill road safety values in Nigeria’s future leaders.
Commander Kehinde encouraged the children to act as the “eyes” of the FRSC in their communities and families, reminding them that road safety is everyone’s responsibility. “The road may require patience,” he said, “but it does not forgive.”
He warned motorists, especially private car owners, to stop the dangerous practice of placing minors in front seats, labeling it a grievous criminal offense. He stated firmly that the FRSC would treat such actions as a serious breach, regardless of the offender’s status.
SDER Elizabeth Oludare, representing the Zonal Commanding Officer Oludayo Odeleye, advised the children not to let reckless driving—by parents, personal, or commercial drivers—cut their lives or destinies short. She reminded them of the adage, “The young shall grow.”
Mrs. Oluyemisi Caroline, Head of the Road Safety Officers’ Wives Association (ROSOWA), described the children as “the glory of their parents and of the nation.” She encouraged them to remain safety-conscious, praying that none of their future potentials would be dimmed by avoidable accidents.
The day featured various educative and fun activities, including quiz competitions, debates, choreographed performances, and side attractions like a bouncing castle, Indomie noodles, an array of soft drinks, and plenty of lively, educational music and dancing.
The event concluded with the celebration cake being cut by Sector Commander Kehinde, One-Day Commander Popoola, and FRSC Special Marshals alongside the children.
Certificates of participation were awarded to all participating schools, with dignitaries and special guests also recognized for their contributions. Commander Kehinde pledged that the FRSC would continue to host the Children’s Day event annually, ensuring that safety education remains a key part of growing up in Lagos.
