By DADA AYOKHAI
The Edo State Government, through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, has convened a meeting of the Edo State Child Rights Implementation Committee (CRIC) in collaboration with SOS Children’s Villages, ROLAC, and CISLAC.
The meeting, held at the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy (JOOPSA), brought together stakeholders to review progress and strengthen efforts in safeguarding children’s rights.
Commissioner Mrs. Eugenia Abdallah reaffirmed the government’s commitment to implementing child rights laws and strengthening child protection systems, citing the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child .
”This landmark convention reminds us that children are not passive recipients of charity, but holders of rights, rights to protection, participation, development, and survival”, she said.
She acknowledged progress made in advancing child rights but stressed that many children still face serious challenges, including poverty, inequality, abuse, neglect, child labour, trafficking, limited access to quality education and healthcare, and exposure to digital risks.
Mrs. Abdallah emphasized that child protection cannot be achieved through policy frameworks alone, stating that commitments must be matched with concrete steps. “As Commissioner, I firmly believe that our responsibility extends beyond policy documents and formal commitments. It demands action, measurable , coordinated, and sustained action.”
Emphasizing a proactive approach to safeguarding children, Mrs Abdallah stated “We must first strengthen prevention. We cannot wait for harm to occur before we respond. Early intervention systems, family support services, and community awareness are critical pillars of child protection.”
“ We must ensure accountability. Laws must be enforced. Institutions must be transparent. Data must guide our decisions. Without accountability, rights remain words on paper,” She added.
In his presentation, the Edo State Programme Officer of Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (ROLAC), Mr. Imonitie Omokhodion provided updates on the implementation status of the Child Rights Law in Edo State. He outlined specific interventions undertaken, the impacts recorded so far, as well as ongoing challenges affecting effective enforcement. He also presented recommendations aimed at strengthening collaboration among stakeholders and improving compliance with the law.
In his remarks, the Project Manager of SOS Children’s Villages, Mr. Innocent Madueke commended the state government’s efforts in advancing child welfare and reaffirmed continued support through family-based care, early intervention, and community-driven child protection initiatives.
The Program Manager of Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), Mr Solomon Adoga reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to strengthening child protection systems in Edo State through advocacy, accountability, and institutional collaboration.
