Child Protection Bill receives strong UNICEF praise as Kebbi boosts justice, welfare and data systems for vulnerable children

The Child Protection Bill has received strong and uplifting commendation from the United Nations Children’s Fund as Kebbi State takes a decisive step towards securing the rights and welfare of its most vulnerable children.

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UNICEF’s Chief Field Officer for Sokoto, Michael Juma, described the passage of the bill as a powerful milestone that promises profound change in how children are protected, reintegrated, and supported across the state.

He explained during the 2025 End-of-Year Review Meeting in Birnin Kebbi that the Child Protection Bill would not only shield vulnerable children from harmful experiences but also ensure that minors in conflict with the law gain timely and fair access to justice.

According to him, the legislation will help free children kept in detention and reduce the harsh legal experiences many minors currently face.

Juma revealed that UNICEF is already in discussions with the State Ministry of Justice on establishing Family Courts to accelerate the handling of child-related cases.

He emphasised that these courts, supported globally by UNICEF, will bring justice closer to communities and ensure children receive the humane and prompt treatment they deserve.

He also highlighted the urgent need for accurate child data, stressing that credible information is vital for planning in education, health, and social sectors.

UNICEF, he said, remains committed to supporting Kebbi through poverty surveys, nutrition interventions, and social protection programmes.

Juma praised the state government for releasing N500 million as counterpart funding for nutrition initiatives. He called the gesture a clear and encouraging demonstration of political will aimed at improving child welfare.

He urged the government to intensify action against the rising population of out-of-school children and to prevent cholera outbreaks by strengthening Water, Sanitation and Hygiene systems.

He also encouraged more local governments to follow the example of Arewa and Maiyama, which are actively campaigning against open defecation.

The Executive Chairman of the Kebbi State Universal Basic Education Board, Professor Suleiman Khalid, cautioned that development efforts must respect local cultural, traditional and religious values.

He linked the prevalence of out-of-school children and Almajiri pupils to social and ecological factors, noting that seasonal migration often leaves children unattended.

He appealed for stronger engagement with traditional and religious leaders to ensure more parents enrol their children in school. Khalid advised that enforcing the new child protection laws must be done with sensitivity to ensure long-term community acceptance.

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The meeting featured presentations across major development sectors, including nutrition, education, WASH, social policy and behavioural change communication, reflecting the state’s growing commitment to creating a safer and more supportive environment for children.