•Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim
The Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has unveiled a committee to review the National Child Policy of 2007.
In a statement signed by the minister’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Jonathan Eze, today, the minister described the initiative as a critical step in her commitment to the well-being of children.
She emphasised that it also demonstrates her resolve to build a conducive atmosphere for Nigerian children to thrive and lead brighter futures.
The minister urged the committee, chaired by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Women Affairs, Dr Maryam Keshinro, to adopt a holistic approach, engaging stakeholders from all sectors—government, civil society, and, most importantly, the voices of children themselves.
She stressed 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 part: “As we gather today, it is important to acknowledge a fundamental truth: that our children are the cornerstone of our nation. They are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are our greatest hope and 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 important task of reviewing the National Child Policy reflects the progress we have made since its inception. While we have seen commendable advancements in sectors such as education, health, and child protection, we must also recognise the challenges that remain, such as poverty, gender inequality, inadequate access to quality education, and the impacts of insecurity that threaten the future of our children.
“In light of this, it is vital that the committee understands the task before you is both crucial and challenging. You are entrusted with reviewing a policy that will guide our nation in protecting and promoting children’s rights. Your expertise, insights, and commitment will be essential to ensuring that the policy reflects the realities children face today and anticipates the challenges of tomorrow.”
Sulaiman-Ibrahim further urged the committee to adopt a holistic approach, engaging with stakeholders across all sectors—government, civil society, and, most importantly, the voices of children themselves.
She maintained that it is essential for the policy to be inclusive and address the diverse needs of all children, particularly those from marginalised communities and those with disabilities.
The minister also encouraged the committee to leverage technology and innovation in their approach. “As you are aware, the world is changing rapidly, and our policies must adapt to ensure that our children are equipped with the skills and knowledge to thrive in a dynamic global landscape,” she said.
She added, “This review is not just about creating documents or frameworks; it is about transforming lives and ensuring every child in Nigeria has access to education, healthcare, and a safe environment where they can grow and develop.”
Sulaiman-Ibrahim expressed her appreciation to the members of the committee for availing themselves for the task, stating that together, they have the power to make a lasting impact that will benefit generations to come.
“We can only achieve this if we work diligently, passionately, and collaboratively to create a National Child Policy that is Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound,” she said.
The minister also thanked President Bola Tinubu for creating a conducive environment that allows her to pursue the mandate of the Ministry of Women Affairs, Children, and Vulnerable Groups without hindrance. She also expressed gratitude to the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her support and motherly advice, which has encouraged her in carrying out her duties successfully.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary thanked the minister for her leadership and assured her that the committee would work diligently to produce all-inclusive policy documents for the benefit of Nigerian children.
The event was attended by the ministry’s directors and the consultant, Professor Taofeek Muhammad Ladan, among others.
