The Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to President Bola Tinubu on Citizenship and Leadership, Ms Rinsola Abiola, has called for the review of the laws and policies governing the administration of criminal justice in Nigeria, with a view to enhancing access to justice for all, especially the young people.
She made the call over the weekend during an Access to Justice roundtable meeting in Abuja, which was convened as part of activities to mark the 2024 International Youth Day in Abuja over the weekend.
She noted that while economic empowerment is of critical importance and education is key to a brighter future and greater opportunities, protection of the rights of young people is a key step in building a truly just and equitable society.
According to Abiola, this would enhance access to justice for young people who are navigating the criminal justice system.
The presidential aide stated, ‘’A key step in the quest to build a truly just and equitable society is to work to enhance access to justice for young people who are navigating the criminal justice system.”.
‘’Earlier this year, I accompanied the Honourable Monster of State for Youth Development, Hon. Ayodele Olawande, on a visit to Kuje Correctional Centre. It was an opportunity to witness the commendable efforts of the dedicated officers of the Nigerian Correctional Service, but that visit further highlighted the fact that the overwhelming majority of incarcerated persons across our correctional facilities are young people, many of whom are awaiting trial.
‘’While young people falling on the wrong side of the law can be attributed to several factors, including peer pressure and other such things, one thing youth advocates all agree on is that there is a critical need to review the laws and policies governing the administration of criminal justice in Nigeria, with a view to enhancing access to justice for all who require it while also better safeguarding the welfare, rights, and interests of young people.’’
She assured that the meeting, which is targeted at recommending reforms for the justice system, will not only be a talkshop, as the administration of President Tinubu is committed to youth development, which is a key component in his Renewed Hope agenda.
‘’Youth development is a key component of the Renewed Hope agenda, and Mr President, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR), has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to supporting, empowering, and uplifting young people since he took over the mantle of leadership through several consistent actions such as NELFUND (student loans), the Nigeria Youth Academy, the Corpreneur Scheme, and many more,” Ms Abiola added.
The event was organised by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to President Bola Tinubu on Citizenship and Leadership in partnership with the Nigeria Youth Futures Fund (NYFF/LEAP Africa), the Public and Private Development Council (PPDC), and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
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