FG budgets N112bn to safeguard schools in 3 years — Minister

The Federal Government of Nigeria has allocated over N112 billion to safeguard children’s rights and promote inclusive, safe environments for learning over the next three years. This announcement was made by the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, in a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday, November 20, to mark the 2024 World Children’s Day.

The theme for this year’s celebration is “Advancing Children’s Rights for a Sustainable Future,” which highlights global efforts to raise awareness about issues such as education inequity, child labour, and access to healthcare. The day commemorates the anniversary of the UN General Assembly’s adoption of the Declaration on Children’s Rights in 1959 and the Convention on the Rights of the Child in 1989.

In her statement, Minister Sulaiman-Ibrahim emphasized the government’s commitment to creating an environment where every child can access education, health services, and live free from harm. “Through the National Plan for Financing Safe Schools, more than N112 billion has been allocated to safeguard learning environments over the next three years, ensuring that schools remain safe and inclusive spaces for all children,” she stated.

The Minister also highlighted the progress Nigeria has made in protecting children’s rights, particularly with the domestication of the Child Rights Act (CRA 2003) across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Additionally, the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act of 2015 and the Maputo Protocol are key policies in protecting children from abuse, violence, and exploitation.

“This Act has strengthened policies to shield children from abuse, violence, and exploitation, reinforcing Nigeria’s stance against all forms of harm toward its youngest citizens,” Sulaiman-Ibrahim said. She further noted that Nigeria is taking bold actions to combat violence against children through legislative reforms, enhanced policies, and comprehensive child protection frameworks.

The Minister also urged stakeholders to address pressing issues such as child labour, trafficking, harmful cultural practices, and barriers to inclusive education.

“Let us remember that every child represents our collective future. The ministry remains unwavering in its mission to build a Nigeria where every child is empowered, protected, and given the environment and tools to thrive,” she concluded.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim called for collaboration among all stakeholders to create a society where children’s rights are not only protected but celebrated as the foundation for a sustainable and prosperous future.