The Federal Government has allocated ₦112 billion through the National Plan for Financing Safe Schools to safeguard learning environments over the next three years.
This announcement was made by the Minister for Women Affairs, Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, in a statement marking Universal Children’s Day, themed “Advancing Children’s Rights for a Sustainable Future.”
“Through the National Plan for Financing Safe Schools, over ₦112 billion has been allocated to ensure that schools remain safe and inclusive spaces for all children,” Suleiman-Ibrahim stated.
Highlighting progress in advancing children’s rights, the minister revealed that all 36 states in Nigeria have domesticated the Child Rights Act, a significant milestone in protecting children under the Nigerian Constitution. She also emphasized the implementation of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act, which has bolstered efforts to shield children from violence and abuse.
“The Government of His Excellency, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is committed to creating an environment where every child has access to education, health, and a life free from fear and harm,” she said.
The minister outlined additional measures, including Nigeria’s commitment to the Maputo Protocol, legislative reviews, and the development of comprehensive child protection frameworks. These efforts demonstrate the government’s dedication to combating violence against children and ensuring their well-being.
Despite these achievements, Suleiman-Ibrahim acknowledged persistent challenges, such as child labour, trafficking, harmful cultural practices, and barriers to inclusive education. She called for collective action from stakeholders to address these critical issues and build a sustainable future for Nigerian children.
Universal Children’s Day serves as a platform to highlight the importance of safeguarding children’s rights, a mission the Federal Government continues to prioritize through strategic initiatives and investments.
