The Centre for Legal Orientation and Humanitarian Aid Initiative (CELOHA Nigeria), working with the West Africa Network for Child Protection (WAN), has called on the Kano State Government to urgently set up the Child Protection Steering Committee.
The groups warned that delays are putting children in danger and weakening efforts to protect them.
In a joint statement, they said:
“Continued delays are putting the lives, dignity, and future of thousands of children at serious risk.”
They explained that without the committee, child protection efforts remain disorganised, leaving children exposed to trafficking, child labour, street begging, abuse, early marriage, and unsafe migration.
The statement added that, “the absence of this critical coordination body has created significant gaps in the child protection system.”
The groups said cases of abuse are often delayed or not reported, while victims struggle to access care and support. They also noted weak enforcement of laws and poor data for planning.
They stressed the importance of the committee in coordinating responses across government agencies and partners, improving accountability, and ensuring faster action on child protection cases.
“CELOHA Nigeria and WAN emphasize that Kano State, given its population size and strategic importance, requires a strong, coordinated, and responsive child protection system to address the growing and complex challenges affecting children and young people,” the statement said.
They acknowledged government efforts so far but warned that delays are undermining progress.
“While we acknowledge and commend the efforts made by the Kano State Government in advancing child protection initiatives, the continued delay in inaugurating the Steering Committee undermines these efforts and weakens the overall protection system,” they added.
The groups urged the Ministry of Women Affairs, Children and Disabled, along with other agencies and partners, to act quickly.
They warned that, “Every day of delay exposes more children to harm. The time to act is now.”
“Children cannot wait. Their protection must be immediate, coordinated, and sustained.”
