In a heartfelt commemoration of World Children’s Day on November 20th, Hon. Imaan Suleiman, Nigeria’s Minister for Women Affairs, has reaffirmed her dedication to the rights and protection of children across the nation. The minister’s statement, released on Wednesday, emphasized the importance of safeguarding children’s rights as vital to national progress and the future well-being of Nigerian society.

File Photo: Children celebrating

World Children’s Day marks the adoption of two pivotal milestones in child rights history: the United Nations General Assembly’s Declaration of the Rights of the Child in 1959, and the Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) in 1989.

In her address, Hon. Imaan Suleiman highlighted the Ministry of Women Affairs’ role as a critical advocate for children’s rights. “Protecting and promoting these rights is central to our mandate,” she stated, aligning her ministry’s efforts with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes the welfare of women and children.

Reflecting on her recent diplomatic engagements, including a visit to Colombia, the minister underscored the government’s proactive approach in fostering international partnerships aimed at enhancing child protection initiatives and advocacy strategies. “The insights gained from this visit will significantly contribute to our ongoing work in improving child protection systems and promoting children’s well-being across the nation,” she noted.

During her statement, Imaan reiterated her commitment to ensuring safety and equitable welfare for children, women, and individuals with special needs. “Together with the President’s directives, our administration will relentlessly work towards the socioeconomic development of these vulnerable groups,” she affirmed.

The minister further appealed to all Nigerians, civil society organizations, and family units to unite in protecting the nation’s children. “The Nigerian government remains steadfast in its resolve to ensure that every child grows up in a safe, supportive, and equitable environment,” she declared.

She concluded by framing this year’s World Children’s Day as not only a time for reflection but also a rallying cry for collaborative efforts toward a child-friendly Nigeria. “Let us work together to realize the vision where every child can thrive and reach their full potential,” Hon. Imaan entreats as she calls for joint action to safeguard the welfare of all Nigerian children.

As the world observes this significant day, the commitment made by Hon. Imaan Suleiman serves as an essential reminder of the importance of prioritizing the rights and protection of children to foster a brighter future for the nation.