The Federal Government and the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) have commended Nigeria for its strides in protecting the rights of children through the implementation of the Child Rights Act (CRA).

Speaking at a symposium and interactive session with students from various schools to mark the Universal Day of the Child, the Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs. Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing children’s rights nationwide. This commitment extends to ensuring their access to basic necessities, education, and protection from abuse and violence.

According to Kennedy-Ohanenye, it is imperative for Nigeria to persist in safeguarding and guaranteeing the welfare of its children. She conveyed, “Children need to understand that under President Bola Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda, their rights are sacrosanct, and they will be protected without fail.”

UNICEF’s Director of Programmes in Nigeria, Chikodi Onyemerela, stressed the non-negotiable nature of children’s rights, including access to quality healthcare, education, and developmental opportunities, as well as protection from emotional abuse. Onyemerela underscored the critical role of upholding children’s rights in shaping the future leaders of Nigeria, emphasizing, “Recognizing and respecting children’s rights is pivotal for nurturing responsible citizens who will steer the nation forward.”

He added, “It is imperative for Nigeria to acknowledge the significance of integrating children’s welfare into governance, considering them as valuable stakeholders in the nation’s progress and development.”