Minister, Women Affairs, Inaugurates Committee to Review National Child Policy 2007 With Prof Ladan as Lead Consultant
Minister of Women
Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has set another milestone with the
inauguration of the Committee for the Review of the National Child Policy
2007.
This act, according to a
statement signed by the Special Adviser to the Minister on Media and Publicity,
Mr Jonathan Eze on Friday, marks not only a critical step in her commitment to
the well-being of children, but also demonstrates her resolve to build a
conducive atmosphere for Nigerian child to thrive.
The minister urged the
committee led by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs, Dr
Maryam Keshinro, to adopt a holistic approach, engaging with stakeholders
across all sectors—government, civil society, and, most importantly, the voices
of children themselves.
She added that the
policy must be inclusive, addressing the diverse needs of all children,
including those from marginalised communities and those with disabilities.
The statement reads in
parts: “As we gather today, It is important to acknowledge a fundamental truth:
that our children are the cornerstone of our nation. 6 /
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“They are not just the
leaders of tomorrow; they are our greatest hope and our most precious
resource.
“It is necessary that
their rights are upheld and their needs are met, nurturing and creating an
environment where they can thrive and reach their full potential.
“Our emphasis on this
profound assignment of reviewing the National Child Policy is to reflect on the
progress we have made since the inception of the Policy.
“We have witnessed
commendable advancements in sectors like education, health, and child
protection, we must also recognise the challenges that persist, such as
poverty, gender inequality, inadequate access to quality education, and the
impacts of insecurity that threaten the futures of our children.
“It is imperative to
draw your attention as members of this committee, that the task before you is
both vital and challenging.
“You are entrusted with
the responsibility of reviewing a policy that will guide our nation in
protecting and promoting the rights of children.
“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.
“Therefore, I urge you
to adopt a holistic approach, engaging with stakeholders across all
sectors—government, civil society, and, most importantly, the voices of
children themselves.
“It is essential that
our policy is inclusive, addressing the diverse needs of all children,
including those from marginalised communities and those with disabilities.”
Sulaiman-Ibrahim further
urged the committee to also leverage on technology and innovation in their
approach.
“As you are aware, the
world is changing rapidly, there is no gain saying that our policies must adapt
to ensure that our children are equipped with the skills and knowledge to
thrive in a dynamic global landscape.
“It is worthy of note
that 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.
“I would like to express
my appreciation to members of this committee for your demonstration by
availing yourself to be members of the Committee that will make this noble
cause successful.
“Together, we have the
power to make a lasting impact that will reverberate for generations to
come.
“We can only achieve
this if we work diligently, passionately, and collaboratively to create a
National Child Policy which is Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and
Time-bound (SMART).”
Sulaiman-Ibrahim thanked
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for creating a conducive environment for her as
Minister of Women Affairs to successfully strive to achieve the mandate of the
ministry of women, children and vulnerable and to also operate without
hindrance.
She also appreciated the
First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her
support and motherly advice towards encouraging her to carry out her
assignments successfully.
The Permanent Secretary
thanked the minister for her leadership and assured her that the committee will
work hard to ensure that an all-inclusive policy documents are produced to the
advantage of all Nigerian children.
The event was also
attended by directors of the ministry and the consultant, Prof. Tawfiq Muhammad
Ladan, among others.
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