The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and well-being of children by strengthening child protection mechanisms and advancing Child Rights initiatives.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Minister of Women Affairs, made the announcement on Wednesday while commemorating the Universal Day of the Child and launching the State of the Nigerian Girl Report 2025 in Abuja.
Organized in collaboration with Save the Children International (SCI), the event highlighted the need to honor Nigerian children and recognize their positive contributions to society.
Represented by Dr. Maryam Keshinro, the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, the Minister stressed the importance of proper documentation in child protection and noted ongoing government efforts to address rising out-of-school numbers and respond to recent schoolgirl abductions.
She further emphasized the creation of safe spaces in schools, the review of child-related policies, and the nationwide implementation of the Child Rights Act.
Mr. Duncan Harvey, Country Director of SCI, praised progress in reducing child marriage rates and called for increased investment in children’s rights, education, and health.
Miss Progress Umo, Speaker of the Nigerian National Children’s Parliament, urged the government and stakeholders to prioritize school security and create safe learning environments.
Mrs. Edema Irom, Dean of Commissioners of Women Affairs and Commissioner for Cross River State, stressed that child protection must be a national priority, calling for collaboration between state and non-state actors.
The event underscored the collective responsibility of government, NGOs, and communities to ensure that all children in Nigeria are safe, empowered, and able to thrive academically and socially.
