Before the era of tablets, streaming apps, and social media trends, Children’s Day in Nigeria was one of the happiest moments of the year for many children. The celebration came with excitement, colourful activities, delicious treats, and plenty of laughter. From school parades to cultural dances and funfair games, every child looked forward to 27 May with pure joy.
Here are some unforgettable ways we celebrated Children’s Day in Nigeria back then.
- Early morning march past preparations
Children woke up very early to prepare for the big parade. School uniforms were neatly ironed, white socks looked spotless, and canvas shoes were polished until they shone. Parents helped children get ready, while teachers prepared pupils for the long-awaited march-past competitions.
- Inter-School march past competitions
One of the biggest highlights of Children’s Day was the march past. Schools gathered at stadiums or open fields where pupils marched proudly before government officials, parents, and guests. Brass bands played loudly while schools competed to impress the crowd with discipline and coordination.
- Cultural dance performances
Children proudly represented different Nigerian cultures through dance and drama presentations. Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, Efik, and other traditional outfits added colour and beauty to the celebration. These performances brought excitement and taught children about Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.
- Party food and special treats
Children’s Day always came with food. Many schools organised small parties with jollof rice, meat pies, soft drinks, sweets, and biscuits. Some parents packed special lunches for their children because the day was considered extra special.
- Funfair games and competitions
Games made the celebration even more exciting. Sack races, musical chairs, tug-of-war, skipping competitions, and dancing contests kept children entertained throughout the day. Winning even the smallest prize felt like a major victory.
- Television and Radio programmes for children
Television stations aired cartoons, children’s interviews, talent shows, and educational programmes throughout the day. Many children hurried home after school events just to continue the celebration in front of the television.
- Excursions and picnic outings
Some schools organised special outings to amusement parks, beaches, museums, or recreation centres. For many children, this became one of the most memorable parts of the celebration because it offered rare opportunities for adventure and fun outside school.
- New clothes and fancy hairstyles
Children often used the occasion to show off new outfits, colourful ribbons, beads, and neatly styled hair. Tailors and hairdressers were usually very busy before Children’s Day because parents wanted their children to look their best.
- The excitement of seeing friends
Children’s Day was also about friendship and socialising. Pupils from different schools interacted, played, and laughed freely. It was a day without academic pressure, making it one of the happiest moments of childhood.
- Memories that still make us smile
Although celebrations may look different today, many Nigerians still remember the joy of old Children’s Day celebrations. The excitement of marching, sharing snacks with classmates, and participating in games remains unforgettable for those who experienced it.