KidsCon 2026 inspires over 1,000 students, celebrates talent in Okitipupa
No fewer than 1,000 students from secondary schools across Okitipupa, Ilaje and Ese-Odo Local Government Areas converged on Fiesta Hotel, Okitipupa, on Saturday for the 2026 edition of KidsCon, an initiative designed to promote learning, creativity and leadership among young people.
The programme, sponsored by the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, attracted teachers, parents and other stakeholders, who witnessed a series of educational and recreational activities aimed at inspiring students to excel academically and socially.
Activities at the event included talent exhibitions, dance and musical performances, educational games and other competitions designed to build confidence, encourage creativity and nurture leadership qualities among participants.
Speaking during the programme, the Chief Executive Officer of KidsCon International, Mrs Funmi Bankole, described the Okitipupa edition as one of the most successful in the initiative's 15-year history, attributing the feat to the support of Tunji-Ojo despite the country's economic challenges.
She explained that KidsCon was established to provide children with opportunities to discover and develop their talents while instilling values such as discipline, teamwork, leadership and self-confidence.
Bankole said, "This is one of the best editions we have organised in the past 15 years. At one point, I thought we would not be able to hold this year's programme because of the economic situation, but the support of Dr Bunmi Tunji-Ojo made it possible."
She commended the minister for his commitment to the initiative, saying he remained passionate about giving children memorable learning experiences, and urged the students to remain focused on their education, cultivate good character and believe in their ability to succeed.
She also appealed to parents to continue supporting the intellectual and moral development of their children, describing them as future leaders whose potential must be nurtured.
One of the judges, Pastor Emmanuel Oghebe, charged the students to uphold high moral standards and remain worthy ambassadors of their schools, families and communities.
"You must always be of good character, remain disciplined and strive to be exemplary students wherever you find yourselves," Oghebe said.
Participating secondary schools included Arogbo City Academy, Divine Success School, Ikoya Grammar School, Blossom Scholar School, Okitipupa, Comprehensive High School, Ode-Irele, Fortune Gate School, Best Brainy Academy, Wisdom Court College, Igbokoda, Apoi National High School, Christ Our King School, Ilaje High School and King David Royal College, Igbokoda, among others.
At the end of the competition, Comprehensive High School, Ode-Irele, finished fifth with 44 points, while Fortune Gate School placed fourth with 44.8 points. Best Brainy Academy secured third position with 47 points, Wisdom Court College, Igbokoda, came second with 48.5 points, while Apoi National High School emerged overall champion with 49.5 points.
Parents and guardians who spoke with journalists praised the organisers for combining education with entertainment, saying the initiative gave students an opportunity to showcase their talents, interact with their peers and build self-confidence.
Highlights of the event included the cutting of the KidsCon cake, a raffle draw, and the presentation of trophies, prizes and gifts to the winning schools and outstanding participants.