By Justina Auta
The Federal Government on Friday, inaugurated a committee to review the National Child Policy 2007 to improve the well-being of children and identify gaps threatening their future.
Inaugurating the committee in Abuja, Mrs Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, the Minister of Women Affairs, said the policy review would strengthen the rights and protection of children for a brighter and secure future.
She described children as the nation’s cornerstone, hence the need to uphold their rights, meet their needs, and create an environment conducive for them to realise their full potential.
“We must also recognise their challenges such as poverty, gender inequality, inadequate access to quality education, and the impact of insecurity that threaten their future.
“You are entrusted with reviewing a policy that will guide our nation in protecting and promoting children’s rights.
“Hence your expertise, insights, and commitment will be crucial in ensuring that our policy reflects the realities faced by our children today and anticipates the challenges of tomorrow,” she said.
The minister urged the committee to adopt a holistic approach and engage with stakeholders, especially children, to ensure the policy is inclusive.
She reminded the committee members that the policy should address the diverse needs of all children, especially the marginalised and those with disabilities.
The minister urged the committee to leverage technology and innovation in its assignment to ensure that children are trained to acquire the skills that would enable them to thrive in a dynamic global landscape.
“This review is not just about creating documents or frameworks; it is about transforming lives and ensuring that every child in Nigeria has access to education, healthcare, and a safe environment where they can grow and develop,” the minister said.
While expressing appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for supporting women and children, the minister urged the committee to create a National Child Policy that is Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound (SMART).
Speaking on behalf of the committee, Maryam Ismaila-Keshinro, the Permanent Secretary in the women affairs ministry, assured the gathering of the government’s commitment to upholding the rights and protection of children.
She revealed that the committee will look at the gaps that need to be bridged in the 2007 National Child Policy so that it can stand the test of time.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the committee consists of civil society organisations, non-governmental organisations, development partners, and ministry officials.
The committee is expected to complete the assignment by November 31, 2025. (NAN)
