Stakeholders in Nigeria's justice sector have begun moves to strengthen legislation on the protection of children's welfare and rights. The stakeholders, including policymakers, legislators, and civil society representatives, are calling for implementable and enforceable legislation to enhance the development and welfare of Nigerian children. This effort comes 23 years after the Child Rights Act was enacted in response to a United Nations call.
The National Stakeholders' Engagement on the Review and Amendment of the Child Rights Act 2003 was opened by the Federal Ministry of Justice, in collaboration with UNICEF and International IDEA. The Attorney-General of the Federation, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, said the development of Nigerian children is crucial to the country's development. He noted that investment in children is an investment in Nigeria's future workforce, leadership, innovation, peace, and prosperity.
Fagbemi emphasized that child rights are fundamental to human capital development, national security, social stability, and sustainable development. He urged participants to address the gap between rights guaranteed by law and those enjoyed by Nigerian children in reality. The engagement aims to review and amend the Child Rights Act to ensure better protection and welfare for children.
Justice Suzzette Nyesom-Wike, Co-Chair of the Review Committee, commended stakeholders for their efforts and urged participants to bring their experience to bear on the process. The judiciary is ready to play its part in ensuring a successful outcome. The review process aims to produce recommendations that will close gaps between legislative intent and judicial enforcement.
Chief Judge of the Federal High Court, Justice John Tsoho, noted that over two decades have passed since the enactment of the Child Rights Act in 2003. During this period, Nigerian children have faced challenges such as the pressures of the digital age, insecurity, child labour, and child marriage. He called on participants to consider these prevailing circumstances.
Tsoho identified the lack of uniform domestication and enforcement of the Act across states as a challenge requiring attention. He assured participants that the courts are ready to enforce whatever protection the law affords children, provided such laws are properly enacted, domesticated, and given practical effect. The Federal High Court remains committed to playing its part in ensuring justice for Nigerian children.
The stakeholders' engagement aims to produce recommendations on clearer definitions, stronger enforcement mechanisms, and adequate provision for child-friendly court procedures. The goal is to ensure better coordination between the judiciary, law enforcement, social welfare structures, and traditional and religious institutions that shape the everyday lives of Nigerian children.
Key points
- The Nigerian government enacted the Child Rights Act in 2003 in response to a United Nations call.
- Stakeholders are calling for implementable and enforceable legislation to enhance the development and welfare of Nigerian children.
- The review process aims to close gaps between legislative intent and judicial enforcement of the Child Rights Act.
