President, National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS), Chief Yomi Otubela, has called on Federal Government to review the Child’s Right Act with the aim of accommodating emerging issues relating to protection of children.
Also, the Deputy Director, LAWBREED Ltd, Publishers of Judgments of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, Mrs. Adejoke Layi-Babatunde, said the states and the Federal Government must ensure that children are safe and properly protected in schools.
The duo disclosed this in their messages to celebrate the Children’s Day. They stated that in the last few years, Nigerian children have had a fair share of the insecurity challenges confronting the country. Otubela said the challenges of insecurity are manifesting in form of kidnappings, killings and raping in schools.
In his words: “ The Child’s Rights Act should be reviewed to accommodate other emerging issues relating to the protection of children.
“This calls for governments and security operatives to collaborate with the internal security arrangements in schools for effective monitoring of learning environments.
“It feels so great to note that another opportunity has presented itself once again to celebrate our children as they take the centre stage in commemoration of the 2022 Children’s Day.”
He said states that are yet to adopt the Child’s Rights Act in their laws should do so in the interest of the children. He congratulated children all over the states of the federation and salute their courage, resilience and zeal in the face of vulnerabilities, exploits and threats are constantly exposed to.
The theme for this year’s celebration, “Building a Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy Toward A Safe Learning Environment for the Nigerian Child”, echoes the need to protect children from the vicissitudes of life that could impact greatly on their future circumstances. He added that school owners, educators or administrators must take absolute responsibility to ensure the safety of children in their care.
“In other words, learners should feel safe to actively face their studies without fear or distractions, while anxiety being often generated in the minds of the parents should be doused through a well-formulated and implementable child protection policy in schools,” he said.
Otubela emphasised that a comprehensive safeguarding and Child Protection policy, should apply to all members of staff, Board of Trustees, volunteers, parents, students or anyone working on behalf of schools.
“Encourage children to develop a sense of independence and autonomy in a way that is appropriate to their age and stage of development, provide a safe and secure environment for all children and share information about child protection and good practice with children, parents, staff and volunteers.
“Share concerns with relevant agencies and also involve parents and children appropriately, to promote and prioritise the safety and wellbeing of children and young people,” he said.
Mrs. Layi-Babatunde on her part called on children to be focused and not be distracted because of the chaos around the world. She said: “I always pray for a better and brighter future for you all. The distractions and chaos in the world is huge at this time, but just stay focused, determined to make the most of your lives. Love yourselves because you are never here by an accident.
“You are worthy and you have huge potentials. In fact, the world is waiting for your manifestation. Try to do what is right even if it’s not popular and always focus on the big picture.”