By Uji Abdullahi Iliyasu
Abuja
The United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF) has commended the governor of Adamawa state, Ahmadu Fintiri, for signing the Child Protection Bill into law.
According to the statement signed by UNICEF representative in Nigeria, Ms Cristian Munduate, and made available to Blueprint, Saturday, the child protection law in Adamawa state frowns at child abuse in any way.
“The Child Protection Law is the official position of the Adamawa Government that disregard for children’s rights is unacceptable and punishable. The law aims to safeguard the rights of children by preventing and addressing the killing and maiming of children, child labour, abductions of children, sexual violence against children and the recruitment and use of children by armed groups, among other grave violations of their rights.
“UNICEF hopes that the new law in Adamawa will be effectively implemented and that vulnerable children are supported to survive, thrive and become successful members of the society,” the statement reads in part.
With the signing into law the Child Protection Bill by the government of Adamawa state, only Kano, Bauchi and Gombe states are yet to domesticate the Child Rights Act, the statement revealed.
“UNICEF calls on the governments of these states to do the needful as a commitment of their respect for the rights of children.
“UNICEF will continue to work with the government of Adamawa to operationalise the law and bring perpetrators and violators into account,” the statement added.
