United Nations Children’s Fund has called action for governments, NGOs, individuals, and other stakeholders to prioritise Nigerian children’s rights and well-being, particularly in conflict zones.
Speaking in Maiduguri on Wednesday while commemorating the 2024 World Children’s Day with the theme “Listen to the Future,” the UNICEF Chief of Maiduguri Field Office, Dr. Gerida Birukila, acknowledged progress in actualising children’s rights in the North-East region but noted room for improvement.
She explained that in Borno children are living in hard-to-reach places where essential services are limited.
According to her, the recent flooding in most parts of the state has consistently cut off road access to children, especially in Rann, the capital of Kala-Balge Local Government Area.
“The recent flooding event has further exacerbated the challenges being faced by children in the state. As we speak, thousands of children displaced by the flood are out of school.
“UNICEF is, in the interim, providing radio learning classes for over 10,000 children displaced by flood in IDP camps in Gubio and Dikwa”.
She advocated for education support beyond primary school for vulnerable children.
“UNICEF will continue to support every child in Borno State and northeast Nigeria. We are ready to work with the Borno State Government and stakeholders to improve child wellbeing.
“UNICEF seeks improved access to quality education, enhanced protection from violence and exploitation, and increased investment in healthcare.
“I want to appreciate the Speaker and members of the Borno State House of Assembly for the opportunity given to our children to be one-day Speaker and members of this honourable assembly.
“A couple of years back, this honourable assembly passed a landmark bill into law – The Borno State Child Protection Law which is now active in the state.
“This is a highly commendable progress, and it resonates with theme of the commemoration: Listen to the Future. Stand Up for Children’s Rights,” Birukila added.
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