The Minister of Women Affairs, Honourable Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, has inaugurated the Committee for the Review of the 2007 National Child Policy, marking a significant step in her dedication to ensuring the welfare and future of Nigerian children.

The inauguration, announced in a statement by her Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Jonathan Eze, reflects the Minister?s resolve to address the needs of all children, particularly those from marginalised communities and those with disabilities.

Addressing the committee, led by the Ministry?s Permanent Secretary, Dr Maryam Keshinro, the Minister called for a holistic approach, urging collaboration with stakeholders across government, civil society, and the inclusion of children?s voices.

?Our children are the cornerstone of our nation. They are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are our greatest hope and our most precious resource,? Sulaiman-Ibrahim said.

She emphasised the need to address challenges such as poverty, gender inequality, inadequate access to education and insecurity, while also leveraging technology and innovation to equip children with the skills to thrive globally.

She reminded the committee that their task goes beyond creating policy frameworks, stating, ?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. Whereby 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.

?In the above regard 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,? she added.

Expressing gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for fostering an environment that enables her ministry to fulfil its mandate, she also appreciated First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu for her guidance and encouragement.

The event saw participation from ministry directors, the consultant Professor Taofeek Muhammad Ladan, and other dignitaries, with the Permanent Secretary pledging the committee?s commitment to producing an all-inclusive policy document. (AriseNews TV)

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