President Tinubu emphasized the necessity of a centralized body to coordinate all child-related issues across the nation. The proposed agency aims to ensure coherent coordination of policies and programs affecting Nigerian children, addressing the fragmentation that has previously hindered effective child protection efforts. The agency will work in tandem with existing institutions, such as the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, to implement and monitor child welfare initiatives.
Comprehensive Measures for Child Welfare
Beyond the establishment of the agency, the administration has outlined several key initiatives:
•Universal Child Grant: A financial support program designed to alleviate household poverty and reduce children’s vulnerability.
•National Child Protection Database and Child Well-being Index: Tools to monitor progress and ensure accountability in child welfare programs.
•Strengthening Legal Frameworks: Reinforcing the enforcement of existing laws like the Child Rights Act and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act to protect children’s rights effectively.
President Tinubu highlighted the importance of proactive measures in child protection, stating, “Our national strategy also embraces prevention and early intervention. We are strengthening families and communities through programs that promote positive parenting, challenge harmful social norms, and provide targeted support to vulnerable households.”
The launch event was attended by representatives from various African nations, underscoring the continent-wide commitment to ending violence against children. The United Nations Special Representative of the Secretary-General on Violence Against Children, Najat M’jid, commended Nigeria’s efforts and urged other African leaders to implement concrete actions to protect children from violence and exploitation.
The establishment of the Child Protection and Development Agency signifies a pivotal step in Nigeria’s commitment to safeguarding its children’s rights and well-being. By consolidating efforts and resources, the agency aims to create a more effective and responsive system for child protection, ensuring that every Nigerian child has the opportunity to grow and thrive in a safe environment.
This initiative aligns with the broader goals of the Renewed Hope Agenda, aiming to foster a society where children’s rights are upheld, and their futures secured.
