2025 KidsCon: Oyebanji Urges Parents, Schools To Nurture Children’s Talents
By Ojo Ayodeji
Ekiti State Governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has urged parents and schools to take children’s talent development more seriously as part of building a stronger future for the state.
The governor delivered the message in Ado Ekiti during the 2025 KidsCon Programme, an annual event that brings pupils together to showcase creativity, innovation and inclusive skills.
He was represented at the gathering by the Special Adviser on Special Education and Social Inclusion, Princess Adetoun Agboola.
Speaking on behalf of the governor, Princess Agboola said the KidsCon inclusion model reflects a society where every child enjoys support and encouragement. She explained that the initiative matches the government’s push for inclusive and fair education for every learner in the state.
“Our children are gifted, capable and important. Their talents matter, and they must keep exploring, learning and growing. I encourage them to show team spirit, fairness and support for one another,” she said.
She pointed out that KidsCon goes beyond showcasing abilities and promotes values such as kindness, sportsmanship and respect for diversity. These, she noted, remain central to the vision of the Oyebanji administration.
Another highlight of her remarks was her praise for the organisers, describing the programme as a meaningful humanitarian effort that has the capacity to influence children beyond Ekiti and across Nigeria.
She appealed to parents and school owners to create more spaces that allow children express their abilities outside classroom routines, saying such efforts help them discover their strengths early in life.
“No talent is small. Every ability deserves attention, encouragement and support. Parents must stand by their children, especially at talent programmes like KidsCon,” she said.
She encouraged school proprietors to hold regular in-house talent competitions that will allow students gain confidence and exposure.
Princess Agboola stressed that Governor Oyebanji remains committed to promoting creativity, inclusion and innovation among young people. She assured that the government will continue to improve the environment for learning through supportive policies and upgraded facilities.
The 2025 KidsCon, held with full backing from the state government, featured pupils from many schools across Ekiti, including children with disabilities. Divine Touch International School, Ado Ekiti, finished as the overall winner of this year’s competition.