In a significant move to safeguard the rights and welfare of Nigerian children, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has announced plans to establish a dedicated Child Development and Protection Agency (CDPA). This initiative aims to ensure that every Nigerian child grows up in a safe, nurturing environment, free from abuse and exploitation.
A Bold Step Towards Child Welfare
The proposed CDPA is designed to serve as the implementing arm for child protection policies, working closely with law enforcement agencies, remand homes, and other child-focused institutions. By taking on the responsibility of enforcing child rights laws, the agency will allow the Ministry of Women Affairs to concentrate on policy formulation and supervision.
Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, emphasized the urgency of this initiative, stating, “Every country is judged by how it protects its vulnerable groups, and our children are the most vulnerable. This agency is not optional; it is something we must do.”
Legislative Backing and Strategic Roadmap
To provide legal backing for the CDPA, the government plans to review the 2003 Child Rights Act. This review will align the Act with current realities and international conventions, ensuring a robust legal framework for child protection. The roadmap includes developing a zero draft, followed by extensive consultations over the next two to three months. The proposed framework will be presented as an Executive Bill, with active collaboration from the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Senate President.
Enhancing Legal Representation and Regional Leadership
As part of the initiative, the government plans to train a dedicated pool of 100 to 200 child protection lawyers who will work at both state and federal levels. These lawyers will ensure proper legal representation for cases related to adoption, child protection, and welfare issues. Additionally, Nigeria is set to host the first-ever regional meeting for women and children in West Africa, supported by UN Women, reaffirming the country’s leadership role in ECOWAS Women and Children Affairs.
A Commitment to a Safer Future for Nigerian Children
The establishment of the CDPA underscores President Tinubu’s commitment to creating a safer, more inclusive Nigeria for its youngest citizens. By addressing critical issues such as child abuse, exploitation, and inadequate legal representation, the agency aims to transform the landscape of child welfare in the country.
With the support of UNICEF and other key stakeholders, Nigeria is poised to take a bold step towards a future where every child is safeguarded, empowered, and given the opportunity to thrive.
