Save the Children International (SCI) Nigeria has commended Zamfara State House of Assembly for passing the Child Protection Bill.
The State Assembly passed the bill Tuesday, August 16, almost 18 years after the Child Rights Act (2003) was first presented to the House to be domesticated.
Madina Abdulkadir, Girl Champion, Save the Children International Nigeria, said, “I am so happy for children in Zamfara. This is great news because the passage of the law realises that all children have the right to a a better life and opportunities to grow safely.”
“I am calling on the states that have signed the law to speed up the full implementation throughout the Federation. I hope the remaining states will be inspired and take similar action to adopt the child rights act immediately.”
Maryam Ahmed, Youth Ambassador, Save the Children International Nigeria, said, “the adoption of the Child Protection Bill in Zamfara State is a key first step to stop the war on children. I commend the State House of Assembly for being champions in protecting the rights and welfare of children. I hope the Bill will be properly socialized, funded and implemented in the State to help provide a favourable environment in which children can realize and release their full potentials.”
Amanuel Mamo, Director of Advocacy, Campaign, Communication and Media, Save the Children International Nigeria, said, “we celebrate the decision made by the Zamfara State House of Assembly in passing the Child Protection Bill that ensures the rights of Zamfara State children are protected, respected and fulfilled.”
“The Bill has come to pass at a critical time when sexual abuse, molestation, rape, early child and forced marriage, child labour, kidnapping and trafficking are robbing the childhood of many girls and boys.”
“However, the full implementation of the Child Protection Bill will be instrumental in ending such violations and abuse of the rights of every child in Zamfara state. Therefore, SCI calls the state government for an immediate rollout, implementation and ownership of the bill.”
It is to be recalled that SCI Nigeria in collaboration with its partner organizations, has been advocating and campaigning towards the domestication of CRA 2003 in Zamfara State. SCI recognizes and appreciates partner organizations, CSOs, child champions, children parliament, community, religious and traditional leaders’ contribution towards adopting the bill.
Save the Children International will continue its collaboration and partnership with the State government to advance child rights per the provisions of the newly adopted Child Protection Bill.
