12 states in northern Nigeria yet to pass child rights law - UNICEF

At least 12 northern states in Nigeria are yet to pass the Child Rights Law despite its obvious benefits for children, a child protection specialist with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Sharon Oladiji, has said.

The states are Bauchi, Yobe, Kano, Sokoto, Adamawa, Borno, Zamfara, Gombe, Katsina, Kebbi, Jigawa and Kaduna.

Speaking during a two-day media dialogue on the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) at 30, Ms Oladiji said many of such states believe some sections of the child rights law need to be amended as it negates their belief and cultural practice.

Ms Oladiji said governments at all level should put laws in place to protect the rights of children in Nigeria.

She said the success of this would encourage implementation and children will consequently grow into better adults in future. She noted that investing in a child was paramount for Nigeria and Africa to realise the rights of the burgeoning child population.

"A healthy development of a child is crucial to the future well-being of any nation. Special attention is required for Nigeria which is the country with the largest increase in absolute numbers of both birth and child population. It is time we acknowledge our shared responsibility and address this issue,” she said.