Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Protect Children’s Rights

The Federal Government of Nigeria reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to protecting and empowering Nigerian children, especially adolescent girls, during a high-level intergenerational dialogue held in Abuja to commemorate the 2026 National Children's Day. Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman Ibrahim, the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, emphasized the government's intention to create platforms for children to voice their concerns and influence national outcomes.

She noted that nearly 30% of Nigerian women aged 15-49 have experienced physical or sexual violence, particularly in rural communities. The government is intensifying efforts to enforce the Domestic Child Rights Act across all 36 states and has developed several policy instruments, including a national cost action plan to end violence against children and strategies to end child marriage.

Additionally, a national podcast platform named "FutureNow" was introduced to provide a safe space for Nigerian children to share their stories. The event highlighted the importance of listening to children's voices to create an environment that nurtures their confidence and leadership.