To a historical extent to strengthen well-being and child protection in Nigeria, the Minister of Women's Affairs, Hajia Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, inaugurated a committee to review the national child policy, which was last updated in 2007.
This initiative marks an important step to ensure that national policies continue to respond to the changing needs of Nigerian children.
In his speech at the opening ceremony in Abuya, the minister stressed the fundamental role of children in national development.
“Our children are the cornerstone of our nation. They are not only the leaders of tomorrow but our greatest hope and our most valuable resources. It is our collective responsibility to defend their rights, promote their development and create an environment where they can prosper and achieve their maximum potential, ”he said.
The minister recognized the commendable advances achieved since the beginning of the National Childhood Policy, particularly in the areas of education, health and child protection, highlighting persistent challenges such as poverty, gender inequality, improper access to quality education and the impacts of insecurity, which continue to threaten the future of Nigerian children.
To guarantee a comprehensive and shocking policies review, the minister urged the committee to take advantage of technology and adopt an approach with a vision of the future.
“Given the changing times, I encourage you to use their experience, knowledge and commitment to develop a solid review of the national childhood policy, one that is specific, measureable, attainable, relevant and with certain deadlines (smart),” he said. aggregate.
In her acceptance speech, the permanent secretary of the Federal Ministry of Women's Affairs, Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, reaffirmed the Ministry's commitment to the review process. He described children as the heartbeat of any nation, hope, dreams and the infinite possibilities of tomorrow.
Keshinro, who is also the president of the Committee, also stressed the importance of Nigeria's national child policy and said that it serves as a governing frame to ensure that each child receives love, care and opportunities it deserves.
He urged the members of the committee to adopt a revolutionary spirit of change that will address the diverse needs of children, regardless of their background, gender or circumstances.
“Let's work to ensure that our children are protected from any damage, have access to adequate medical care and mental support and can prosper in an environment that values their contributions.”
The work of the committee is expected to result in a policy more aligned with contemporary realities, promoting a safer, healthy and inclusive environment for Nigerian children, having as a guide the terms of reference.
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