The Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, announced that efforts are underway to review the 2003 Child Rights Act to enhance its effectiveness in protecting and promoting the development of children in Nigeria.
This update was shared in a statement issued by Najaatu Alwan-Hassan, Director of Information and Public Relations, following the Minister’s visit to an orphanage in Gwagwalada, Federal Capital Territory, on Saturday.
The CRA, originally enacted in 2003, aims to safeguard children’s rights in Nigeria, aligning with international conventions such as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. The Minister emphasized that the review process was progressing as part of a broader initiative, following a directive from Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. This initiative aims to provide firsthand insights to refine the legal framework for child protection.
“I can assure you that we are 100 percent committed to ensuring that we do the necessary review for the legal instrument, so that we are well protected,” said Sulaiman-Ibrahim.
She highlighted that the review process is part of a nationwide effort spearheaded by President Bola Tinubu, with the FCT serving as a pilot area for the implementation of new policies. The review will also focus on updating adoption protocols and the certification of orphanages, with the goal of ensuring comprehensive protection for all children and zero tolerance for abuse.
The Minister also praised stakeholders in the social development sector for their contributions, noting that their efforts are crucial in strengthening the country’s social protection systems. She further acknowledged the media as key partners in raising awareness and driving advocacy to ensure the highest level of child protection in Nigeria.
Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, the Mandate Secretary for FCT Women Affairs, explained that the First Lady’s directive represents a call to action for improving child welfare. She revealed that there are 91 orphanages in the FCT, all of which are undergoing a thorough review with input from traditional leaders and other community stakeholders. The Ministry of Women Affairs, according to Dr. Benjamins-Laniyi, serves as the primary platform for addressing every child-related issue, ensuring that no child is left behind in the pursuit of effective child welfare interventions.