Two child rights organisations have called on the Kano State Government to immediately inaugurate and activate the State Child Protection Committee to improve the protection of vulnerable children across the state.
In a joint statement, the Centre for Legal Orientation and Humanitarian Aid Initiative (CELOHA Nigeria) and the West Africa Network for Child Protection (WAN Network) said they were concerned about the continued delay in making the committee operational despite government efforts to develop child protection policies.
The groups said many children in Kano face serious challenges, including abuse, neglect, exploitation, child labour, trafficking, street begging, early marriage and violence. They stressed that these issues require urgent and coordinated action from relevant authorities.
According to the organisations, government resources should be focused on strengthening child protection systems, supporting vulnerable families, improving referral services and ensuring cooperation among agencies responsible for children’s welfare.
They noted that the Child Protection Committee is expected to bring together government ministries, security agencies, civil society groups, community leaders and development partners to coordinate efforts aimed at protecting children’s rights.
The groups warned that every delay in setting up the committee leaves vulnerable children exposed to greater risks.
They urged the Kano State Government to activate the committee without further delay, provide adequate funding for child protection programmes, strengthen collaboration with civil society organisations and ensure effective implementation of existing child protection laws and policies.
They also called for regular monitoring and accountability measures to address violations against children.
CELOHA Nigeria and WAN Network said they remain committed to working with the government and other stakeholders to build a stronger child protection system that safeguards the rights and welfare of every child in Kano State.
