By The Metro 
…We’ll tell our parents what BTO has done for us — students
No fewer than 1,440 students from 72 primary and secondary schools across Akoko in Ondo State participated in the 2026 edition of KidsCon, a children-focused educational and talent development programme sponsored by the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
The event, held on Saturday at the Olusegun Obasanjo Multipurpose Hall of Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, drew students, teachers, school administrators, parents and community leaders, who commended the minister for supporting initiatives aimed at nurturing children’s talents and promoting moral values.
The Chief Executive Officer of KidsCon International, Mrs Funmi Bankole, described the 2026 edition as one of the most successful in the programme’s 15-year history, attributing its success to Tunji-Ojo’s unwavering support despite the country’s economic challenges.
She said, “This is one of the best editions we have had in the past 15 years. At a point, I thought we would not be able to organise this year’s programme because of the economic situation, but Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo insisted that the children deserve to be happy and ensured the event held.”
Bankole explained that KidsCon was established to bridge the gap between children from wealthy and less privileged backgrounds as well as those in public and private schools through talent discovery, competitions and character development.
According to her, every participating child received gifts and meals, while outstanding schools were rewarded with prizes, adding that the initiative has also continued to provide scholarships and educational support for about 200 students annually.
She said, “Beyond showcasing talents, KidsCon teaches moral values. We have also sustained scholarship support for hundreds of students through payment of school fees, transportation and learning materials with the backing of Dr Tunji-Ojo.”
She added that the organisation hopes to introduce international educational excursions for outstanding participants and eventually reward the overall best-performing school with a bus.
One of the organisers, Mrs Adebisi Shola, said the excitement displayed by the children reflected the success of the programme.
“The smiles on the faces of the students show that the programme has achieved its purpose. Apart from the entertainment, they have learnt lessons on discipline, sportsmanship and good character,” she said.
A judge in the competition, Dr Tayelolu Akerele, urged the students to uphold good morals and remain responsible ambassadors of their schools and communities.
“You must behave well, remain disciplined and be good students wherever you find yourselves,” she advised.
The Chairman of the All Nigeria Confederation of Principals of Secondary Schools, Akoko Zone, and Principal of Agbogbo Grammar School, Mr Orogbemi Babatola Adesoji, described the initiative as a worthwhile investment in the future of young people.
He said, “What has been done today is highly educational. Many of these students have been exposed to experiences they would not ordinarily have. This programme will motivate them to work harder and aspire to higher education.”
Also speaking, Mr Daniyan Samuel Babatunde, representing the Principal of Awodua Grammar School, Ipe-Akoko, said the programme inspired students to develop greater interest in educational and extracurricular activities.
A teacher representing the Principal of Community Comprehensive High School, Akungba-Akoko, Mrs Aleleo, described the programme as a unique platform that enabled students from different schools to interact, learn and build lasting relationships.
The competition also produced outstanding performances from participating schools, with Indomitable Genius Academy, Ugbe-Akoko, emerging overall winner. Tinabel Model College came second, while Ajagbokun High School, Ikun-Akoko, finished third. Ipe High School placed fourth, while Victory College, Ikare-Akoko, secured the fifth position.
Speaking on behalf of the winning school, Mr Michael Sunday of Indomitable Genius Academy, Ugbe-Akoko, expressed delight over the school’s achievement, noting that the victory was the result of determination and hard work.
He said, “We are delighted to emerge winners of this year’s competition. Last year we came third, and I told myself we could do it this year. By God’s grace, we have emerged champions.”
Sunday also appreciated the organisers and the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for providing children with a platform to showcase their talents.
“I sincerely appreciate the organiser of this programme, Minister Tunji-Ojo, for giving students this great opportunity to showcase their talents and celebrate them. We are grateful for this privilege,” he added.
Some of the participating students also expressed appreciation to the organisers and the Minister of Interior for sponsoring the event.
A student of Citadel International College, Ikare-Akoko, Ojumu Joy, said, “I love this event because it helps us discover our talents. We will tell our parents about what BTO has done for children.”
Similarly, Dolapo Sileola Happiness of Indomitable Genius Academy, Ugbe-Akoko, said, “I am very happy after my performance today. I believe BTO truly loves children. We will tell our parents about what he has done.”
Another participant, Olakusehin Blessing of African Church Grammar School, thanked the organisers for the opportunity, while Adejoro Oluwadunsin of Esedo Comprehensive High School, Iwaro-Oka, also commended Tunji-Ojo for supporting children’s development.
Other highlights of the event included the cutting of a commemorative cake and a raffle draw won by Oluwarotimi Goodluck of Oyinle High School, Oba-Akoko, who went home with a brand-new bicycle.