The Federal Government and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) have jointly acknowledged advancements in child protection in Nigeria, attributing the progress to the domestication and implementation of the Child Rights Act.
The Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, conveyed this positive development during an interactive session and symposium held at the Government Science Technical School, Area 3, Abuja. The event, commemorating the Universal Day of the Child, aimed to celebrate strides in safeguarding children’s rights and ensuring their well-being.
Kennedy-Ohanenye emphasized the government’s commitment to prioritizing children’s rights, ensuring access to basic amenities, education, and protection from violence. She urged collective efforts from the government, children, and other stakeholders to secure and ensure the ongoing protection of children.
The minister highlighted the significance of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, assuring children that their rights would be safeguarded in the new Nigeria.
Chikodi Onyemerela, UNICEF’s Director of Programmes in Nigeria, stressed the importance of upholding children’s rights to quality medical services, education, developmental rights, and protection from emotional abuse. He emphasized that every child’s right is crucial for the country to nurture responsible adults who will contribute to the nation’s progress.
Mr Andrew Madugu, the Director of Child at the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, encouraged students to remain focused in their studies and to show gratitude and respect to their elders.
A student representative, Friday Onyekachukwu, expressed appreciation for the minister’s engagement and urged the government to continue supporting children, especially orphans and those lacking access to basic amenities and education. The event also featured a quiz competition and the distribution of school bags and educational materials as part of the celebration.
