By Atiku Galadima, Maiduguri
The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Center (CISLAC) has called on government agencies, civil society organizations, and community leaders in Borno State to strengthen efforts in protecting the rights of children, with particular attention to the most vulnerable.
Speaking at a recent meeting of the Borno State Child Protection Implementation Committee, Solomon Adoga, CISLAC’s Program Manager, described the gathering as a key platform for promoting collaboration among committee members.
The body brings together representatives from state ministries, agencies, development partners, and civil society to review the progress of the Borno State Child Protection Law and discuss challenges in its enforcement.
Adoga highlighted that the law aligns with international frameworks, including United Nations and African Union protocols, which safeguard children’s universal rights.
He also noted that the high number of out-of-school children in the state indicates ongoing violations of their rights to education, healthcare, dignity, and life.
“These rights must be upheld,” he stressed, adding that coordinated efforts and increased awareness among stakeholders are critical to turning the provisions of the law into practical protections for children across Borno.
Committee member Bawagana Kyari said the meeting provided an opportunity to assess how far the 2022 Child Protection Law has been implemented, identify areas where progress is lagging, and find ways to support children’s welfare.
She noted that the committee was recently inaugurated by the state ministry to supervise the law’s enforcement.
Alhaji Ababukari, a traditional ruler and committee member, explained that protecting children has long been part of Borno’s cultural and religious values.
He emphasized that the law will help address the challenges facing out-of-school and street children, many of whom are affected by the insurgency.
The traditional ruler reassured that local leaders and communities remain committed to supporting government efforts to ensure children’s welfare and school enrollment.
