Ismail Umar, Sokoto
The Child Protection Network (CPN), a Non-governmental organisation (NGO), has inaugurated a technical working committee for the promotion of alternative child care policy, programmes and services in Sokoto state.
The Sokoto State Coordinator of CPN, Mr Usman Ahmad-Suka, said the effort was geared toward safeguarding and enhancing the livelihood of children living in alternative care homes different from their direct family residences.
Mr Ahmad-Suka said the policy was desirable in recognition of the plight of children residing in orphanages, organisational shelters and residences different from their direct family homes.
He said many children suffered neglect, improper schooling, poor feeding, clothing and other livelihood needs in the society.
According to him, the committee is expected to push through the alternative care policy drafted by the organisation, which it says is presently waiting for the Governor’s approval.
The Coordinator expressed optimism that when the policy begins operation, the lives of children would be safeguarded while at the guardians’ and custodians’ shelters.
Earlier, the Director, Children Development and Protection in the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, Malam Yusuf Ibrahim, described the alternative care policy as a great way of support and guidelines for enhancing children’s lives.
Mr Ibrahim, who is chairman of the inaugurated Committee said the document would guide all government and non governmental actors on proper handling of children living in alternative care homes and centers.
He explained that based on the committee membership, the policy engagement and other activities would surely obtain the requisite attention as well as needed support.
Also speaking, the District Head of Gagi in Sokoto South local government, Sani Umar-Jabbi, described the policy as a landmark achievement in recognition of the plight of children living in alternative care homes.
He promised more traditional rulers engagement to ensure the right implementation of the policy, stressing the traditional and religious institutions had been addressing many cases of abuse, neglect and other unhealthy treatment of children.
The committee members comprised government officials, traditional and religious leaders, community based groups, CSOs, Journalists and humanitarian services representatives.
Hauwa Abu