In a significant demonstration of commitment to child welfare, the Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has reiterated Nigeria’s steadfast dedication to the protection and advancement of every Nigerian child.
Speaking during an official visit by the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child to Nigeria, led by Robert Nanima, the Minister addressed recent allegations of child rights violations in parts of the country and outlined the government’s multi-layered strategy to safeguard children, support families, and strengthen legal protection frameworks.
“Child protection, development, and family cohesion are not just policy objectives — they are national imperatives.
“While the allegations remain under investigation, Nigeria continues to take proactive and systemic steps to create a safe, just, and nurturing environment for every child,” Minister Imaan stated.
The Honourable Minister outlined a series of landmark reforms and programs designed to protect vulnerable children and support family systems which includes: the Review of the Child Rights Act to ensure full domestication across all 36 states, with a focus on enhancing child-friendly justice and enforcement, establishment of a Child Protection and Development Agency to streamline all efforts under one institutional framework among others.
The Ministry is championing a bold new initiative — the “See Something, Say Something, We Do Something” campaign, providing citizens with accessible platforms to report abuse, exploitation, and neglect. This will ensure real-time responses and justice for affected children.
In his remarks, Nigeria’s Country Rapporteur and Head of the Delegation, Hon. Robert Nanima, appreciated Nigeria’s hospitality and transparency. He emphasised that the Committee’s visit was part of a fact-finding mission to assess the reported concerns and understand the local context.
“We are not here to indict but to collaborate. Nigeria’s willingness to engage and share its efforts shows true leadership in child rights. Africa must work as a community to give its children a future they deserve,” said Nanima.
He was accompanied by other members and some technical experts
The Honourable Minister was joined by key officials including the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, the Director of Child Development, Head of Press and Public Relations and the Special Adviser to the Minister.
As Nigeria continues to lead with empathy, evidence, and accountability, Minister Imaan reiterated “that child protection will remain a core pillar of national development.”