‘To ensure their safety’ — UNICEF seeks implementation of child rights law in Nigeria

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has called for the accelerated implementation of child rights law in Nigeria.

Juliet Chiluwe, UNICEF chief of field office in Enugu, made the call on Thursday during a press briefing ahead of Children’s Day, which is marked on May 27.

Chiluwe said the swift implementation would guarantee the safety and development of children.

She said children must be treated with care and respect as they remain the future of many generations.

“In advocating for proper parenting for value orientation and national consciousness, children all over the world have the rights to voice their opinions and areas of needs, be heard and listened to,” she said.

“It is the obligation of all duty bearers and persons who take care of children to help them actualise these rights.

“Children’s Day, which is celebrated in Nigeria on May 27 annually, is also dedicated to celebrating children all over the world, and for adults to remember their childhood experiences.

“The excitement of the day is palpable as it’s a special day to recognise, honour, celebrate and appreciate – God’s gifts.

“So, attention must be paid to their physical, psychological, developmental, and overall wellbeing.

“It is time to halt and reassess our children’s situations, refocus on better upbringing of our children and ensuring the families remain safety nets for children.”

Chiluwe said UNICEF’s mandate is to assist children everywhere to actualise their right to participation and other rights inherent in the child rights law.

She added that UNICEF would be collaborating with the ministry of gender and social development, Enugu state’s children’s parliament, and media to organise a one-day symposium to help hold duty bearers accountable towards the fulfilment of children’s rights in this year’s celebration.

She said the symposium would provide the needed platform to call the Enugu government and stakeholders to take concerted action on accelerated implementation of the state’s child rights law.

Chiluwe’s office overseas UNICEF activities in Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, Imo, Cross River, Kogi and Benue states.