The Federal Government has initiated a comprehensive investigation into recent reports of child rights violations across Nigeria, while unveiling measures to reinforce child protection laws and support family systems.

Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, disclosed this during a meeting with the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACERWC) in Abuja. The delegation was led by Mr. Robert Nanima, Nigeria’s Country Rapporteur and head of the ACERWC team.

In a statement issued by EmemMaria Offiong, Head of Press and Public Relations at the Ministry, the Minister affirmed the government’s commitment to child welfare under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

“Child protection, development, and family cohesion are not just policy objectives—they are national imperatives,” Sulaiman-Ibrahim stated, noting that ongoing reforms aim to create a safer and more inclusive environment for Nigerian children.

Key initiatives include:

  • A review and full domestication of the Child Rights Act across all 36 states.
  • Amendments to the National Child Policy and the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (VAPP).
  • Establishment of a dedicated Child Protection and Development Agency.
  • Implementation of the EVAC Costed National Action Plan and the National Action Plan on Ending Violence Against Children.

The Minister also launched the “See Something, Say Something, We Do Something” campaign, designed to encourage public reporting of abuse and ensure swift justice for affected children.

Additional measures highlighted include:

  • Expansion of child-friendly courts and legal aid services.
  • Training for justice sector personnel on child protection.
  • Introduction of alternative care guidelines prioritizing family-based reintegration.
  • Inauguration of the National Family Cohesion and Development Programme, which targets over 5 million Nigerians.

To enhance data-driven policymaking, the government is establishing a National Child Protection Database and a Child Well-being Index. Plans are also underway to operationalise a Child Protection Research and Information Centre with support from UNICEF and development partners.

ACERWC’s Robert Nanima commended Nigeria’s transparency and collaborative approach.

“We are not here to indict but to collaborate. Nigeria’s openness and proactive stance reflect true leadership in protecting child rights. Africa must unite to secure a better future for its children,” he said.

The ACERWC delegation also included experts and researchers from across the continent, signaling a united continental approach to child welfare and legal reform.