By Nkechi Eze
The Federal Government of Nigeria has reiterated its commitment to protecting children from violence, as the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, fsi, delivered a rousing keynote address at the Regional Meeting of Pathfinding Countries on Ending Violence Against Children.
The event, which took place at the State House Banquet Hall, Aso Rock Presidential Villa, Abuja, on May 7–8, 2025, brought together dignitaries, civil society leaders, and global stakeholders.
Speaking passionately on the urgency of safeguarding children’s rights across the continent, Hon. Sulaiman-Ibrahim declared, “Africa is rising in innovation and enterprise, but our progress will remain incomplete if we do not protect our most vulnerable the children.” She described violence against children as “a betrayal of our shared humanity and a threat to national security.”
The Minister emphasized the shared responsibility of all “pathfinding nations” under the Global Partnership to End Violence Against Children, noting that although progress has been made, much work remains. She pointed to ongoing issues such as child trafficking, neglect, and harmful traditional practices, urging stronger legal frameworks, integrated child protection services, and preventive strategies including parenting support and school safety programs.
At the heart of her address was The Nigeria Concept a strategic framework developed by the Ministry of Women Affairs in alignment with the Nigeria Agenda 2050 and the National Development Plan (2021–2025). This framework prioritizes gender equality, child protection, and inclusive policy reforms, while integrating child protection into humanitarian responses, particularly in conflict-affected areas.
A standout achievement noted by the Minister was the over 1000% increase in budgetary allocation approved by the President, which has enabled major reforms and the creation of the Child Protection Knowledge and Data Center a pioneering initiative to collect, analyze, and respond to cases of violence against children nationwide.
“This reaffirms Nigeria’s commitment made at the First Ministerial Convening on Ending Violence Against Children in Bogotá, and gives practical expression to the Renewed Hope Agenda for children,” Hon. Sulaiman-Ibrahim said.
The Minister concluded with a powerful call for continental unity and collaboration, urging African nations to harmonize child protection policies, share resources and best practices, and push for joint action at the African Union level. “Let us speak with one voice at the African Union. Let us place children at the heart of our development agenda,” she appealed.
The regional meeting, launched by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, marks a critical milestone in Africa’s united effort to end violence against children and ensure a safer, more inclusive future for the continent’s youngest citizens.
