Children’s Day celebration in Lagos… yesterday. PHOTO: SUNDAY AKINLOLU
NHRC decries increased cases of child rights violation
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has said that the state government is fully committed to providing children in the state with an enabling environment, skills, and opportunities needed to achieve their dreams and aspirations.
The governor gave the assurance, yesterday, during the 2024 Children’s Day celebration held at the Police College Grounds in Ikeja, Lagos.
Sanwo-Olu, who was represented at the event by his deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, added that as the state rises, a future filled with abundant opportunities is unfolding and children should continue to dream big, strive for their goals, and they will surpass their imagination.
He said that the government would always advocate for their growth and ensure that no child is left behind.
The governor, while acknowledging the roles of the private sector in his administration, specifically thanked firms like Nigerdock and Port and Terminal Multiservices Limited that have generously donated classrooms and other resources to schools in the state.
He said the partnerships had helped to ensure children get the best education.
MEANWHILE, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has expressed concern over the alarming and continuous rise in cases of violation of the rights of children in the country.
The NHRC, in a statement by its Executive Secretary, Dr Tony Ojukwu, to commemorate the 2024 Children’s Day, said the disturbing trend underscores an urgent need for a renewed commitment from all facets of the society to protect and guarantee the fundamental rights of the children.
According to him, children represent the most vulnerable population and the consistent increase in reported violations of their rights is a stark reminder of the challenges they face daily.
He said though the Child Rights Act has been passed by several states in Nigeria, there is a need for the various state governments to strengthen its implementation to protect children from all forms of abuse, exploitation, and neglect.
The NHRC boss also used the opportunity of the Children’s Day to call on the government to develop a comprehensive support system for children in distress, create accessible and well-resourced child protection services, helplines, and shelters that will alleviate the suffering of the victims.
The Senior Advocate also harped on the need to establish a robust mechanism for monitoring, reporting, and addressing violations of children’s rights.
“This will ensure that there is accountability at all levels and that perpetrators of violations are brought to justice,” he said.
According to Ojukwu, the protection of children’s rights is not merely a legal obligation but a moral imperative, which will secure the future of the country.
Also in a statement to commemorate the 2024 Children’s Day, Director, Corporate Affairs and External, NHRC, Obinna Nwakonye, called for re-affirmation of commitment to creating a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment for every child.
