The Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Dr. Tony Ojukwu, SAN, has voiced deep concern over the alarming and continuous rise in violations of children’s rights across the country.
In a statement issued by the commission’s Director of Corporate Affairs and External Relations, Obinna Nwakonye, to commemorate the 2024 Children’s Day, Dr. Ojukwu emphasized the urgent need for a renewed commitment from all sectors of society to protect and guarantee the fundamental rights of children.
“Children represent the most vulnerable population, and the consistent increase in reported violations of their rights is a stark reminder of the challenges they face daily,” Ojukwu stated. “These violations not only threaten their immediate well-being but also compromise their future potentials and the overall health and security of our society. It is therefore imperative that we act decisively and with urgency to address this menace.”
Dr. Ojukwu highlighted that despite the passage of the Child Rights Act in several states in Nigeria, there is a pressing need for stronger implementation by state governments to protect children from all forms of abuse, exploitation, and neglect.
In his Children’s Day message, Ojukwu called on the government to develop a comprehensive support system for children in distress, including accessible and well-resourced child protection services, helplines, and shelters to alleviate the suffering of the victims.
He stressed the importance of training professionals in child-centered education, social welfare, healthcare, and law enforcement to effectively identify and respond to child rights violations and other social problems. Additionally, he emphasized the crucial role of education in raising awareness about children’s rights among parents, caregivers, educators, and the children themselves, empowering them to understand and assert their rights.
Dr. Ojukwu also called for the establishment of a robust mechanism for monitoring, reporting, and addressing violations of children’s rights to ensure accountability at all levels and bring perpetrators to justice.
“The protection of children’s rights is not merely a legal obligation but a moral imperative which will secure the future of our country,” he concluded.
The NHRC’s statement serves as a reaffirmation of its commitment to creating a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment for every child, ensuring that their rights are upheld and protected.