Over 1,000 secondary school students from Okitipupa and neighbouring communities converged on Fiesta Hotel, Okitipupa, Ondo State, on Saturday for the 2026 edition of KidsCon, an annual programme designed to promote learning, creativity and leadership among young people.
The event, 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 nurturing young talents.
The programme featured talent displays, dance and musical performances, quizzes and interactive games designed to build participants' confidence, creativity and academic excellence.
Speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of KidsCon International, Mrs Funmi Bankole, described this year's edition as one of the most successful in the initiative's 15-year history, attributing its success to the support of Tunji-Ojo despite the country's economic challenges.
She said the programme was established to provide children with a platform to discover and develop their talents while instilling values such as discipline, leadership, teamwork and self-confidence.
Bankole 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 it became possible with the support of Dr Bunmi Tunji-Ojo."
She commended the minister for sustaining his support for the initiative and urged the students to remain committed to their education, maintain good character and believe in their ability to succeed. She also encouraged parents to continue investing in the academic and moral development of their children.
One of the judges, Pastor Emmanuel Oghebe, charged the participants to uphold integrity and discipline, urging them to 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," he said.
Participating 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, placed fifth with 44 points, Fortune Gate School finished fourth with 44.8 points, Best Brainy Academy came third with 47 points, Wisdom Court College, Igbokoda, secured second place with 48.5 points, while Apoi National High School emerged overall champion with 49.5 points.
Parents and guardians commended the initiative for combining education with entertainment and providing students with opportunities to showcase their talents, interact with peers and build lasting friendships.
The event ended with the cutting of the KidsCon cake, a raffle draw and the presentation of prizes and gifts to winning schools and outstanding participants.
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