The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has provided educational and recreational materials to schoolchildren in Jigawa State while urging parents, educators, communities and government agencies to recognise play as an essential element of children’s learning, growth and well-being.
The donation was made during the 2026 International Day of Play celebration held at Kiyawa Special Primary School in Kiyawa Local Government Area. The event was observed under the theme, “Protect Play, Protect Childhood.”
Presenting the items to the Executive Chairman of the Jigawa State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Professor Haruna Musa, UNICEF Education Specialist, Muttaka Mukhtar, emphasized that play is a fundamental right of every child and should be treated as an integral part of education rather than merely a leisure activity.
He noted that encouraging play contributes significantly to children’s academic development, health, creativity, teamwork and psychosocial well-being.
Mukhtar explained that through play, children develop vital life skills such as communication, critical thinking, cooperation and problem-solving, stressing the need for governments, communities and parents to provide safe, inclusive and supportive environments where children can learn and play freely.
Representing the SUBEB Chairman at the event, the Director of Welfare Services, Muhammad Ibrahim, described play as one of the most effective approaches to teaching young learners, particularly during their foundational years of education.
He stated that the widely recognised “Play-Way Method” has consistently proven effective in enhancing classroom participation, improving comprehension and increasing knowledge retention among children.
Ibrahim encouraged parents to create opportunities for children to enjoy meaningful play experiences, noting that such activities contribute positively to learning, social interaction and emotional growth.
He also expressed appreciation to UNICEF for its continued interventions and support aimed at improving educational outcomes and child welfare across Jigawa State.
As part of the celebration, UNICEF distributed a variety of educational and recreational materials, including toys, footballs, storybooks, colouring supplies and other learning resources designed to foster creativity and support early childhood development.
Also speaking at the event, UNICEF’s Early Childhood Care Development Education (ECCDE) National Facilitator, Dr. Sunday Jacob, described play as a powerful educational tool that helps children build self-confidence, creativity and critical thinking abilities.
He cautioned that restricting children’s opportunities to play could have adverse effects on their emotional, cognitive and social development. He therefore called on policymakers to invest more in child-friendly recreational spaces and playground facilities.
The celebration featured a range of activities, including educational games, cultural performances and interactive learning sessions, which generated excitement and active participation among the pupils.
Stakeholders present at the event collectively reaffirmed the importance of safeguarding every child’s right to play, describing it as a vital foundation for nurturing healthier, better-educated and more productive future generations.
