As Nigeria joins the international community to celebrate the Day of the
African Child, President Muhammadu Buhari has pledged the commitment of
the government to protect children from sexual violence, domestic abuse,
and exploitation.
The President also reiterates that this administration will continue to
ensure that every Nigerian child has access to quality and affordable
education by promoting free and compulsory basic education for the first
nine years of schooling.
President Buhari expresses concern on the recent spate of sexual and
physical violence on the girl-child and directs relevant government
agencies to scale up support for victims of violence and ensure that
those who have infringed on their rights face the full weight of our
laws.
He affirms that it is the right of every Nigerian child to be protected
from sexual or physical violence and abuse and to enjoy an environment
conducive for learning and development.
President Buhari further affirms that the safety of every Nigerian child
remains paramount and the government will continue to do all within its
means to protect children from violence and abuse.
The President recognizes that this year’s commemorative activities with
the theme, ”Access to a Child-Friendly Justice System in Africa,” have
moved online due to the global COVID-19 pandemic.
On the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the education sector, the
President notes that school-age children have been forced to continue
education and learning online, as well as through the electronic media.
Recognizing that not all children have access to the tools and resources
to do this, the President assures Nigerians that the priority of the
Federal Government is to ensure that things get back to normal as soon
as possible.
He says that in dealing with the threat posed by the COVID-19 pandemic;
the Federal Government cannot allow education and learning to take the
back seat.
The President encourages all Nigerians to take a moment this day to
celebrate the African child, who represents a better future for all of
us.
”Nigeria is blessed with exceptional and remarkable children and this
government is ever ready to help the Nigerian child achieve their dreams
and build a better tomorrow,” he says.