By Khadija Kubau
The Child Protection Specialist with UNICEF, in Kaduna, Dr. Wilfred Mamah has called for stronger commitment toward fulfilling promises made to Nigerian children, particularly in the areas of education, protection, healthcare and nutrition.
Speaking during the 2026 Children’s Day Conference in Kaduna, Dr. Mamah described the occasion as a moment not only for celebration but also for deep reflection on the condition of children across the country, especially those affected by insecurity, displacement and poverty.
According to him, Nigeria has made remarkable progress in child protection through the adoption of the Child Rights Law in many states, describing the legislation as a major step in recognizing children as individuals with equal dignity and rights.
He, however, lamented that implementation remains a major challenge, noting that insecurity and terrorism continue to deny many children access to education, safety and a stable future.
“A day like this becomes a day of reflection on both the promises and the failures. Many children are still unable to go to school because of insecurity and terrorism,” he said.
Dr. Mamah expressed concern over the plight of children currently trapped in forests and captivity due to kidnapping incidents, including children reportedly abducted in Oyo, stressing that no child deserves to live in fear or be denied the protection and care they deserve.
He stated that UNICEF continues to partner with government at all levels to promote child welfare through immunisation, nutrition, healthcare, education, birth registration and child protection programmes aimed at improving the lives of vulnerable children.
The UNICEF official also raised concern over increasing cases of malnutrition in the country, noting that the organisation was working closely with relevant authorities to address the challenge and improve access to proper nutrition for children.
On education, Dr. Mamah highlighted ongoing efforts to expand digital and blended learning opportunities through initiatives such as the Nigerian Learning Passport, while also supporting programmes designed to integrate children in the Almajiri system into formal education.
Speaking further on child protection, he disclosed that UNICEF is collaborating with the Kaduna State Government on diversion programmes aimed at preventing children from being treated as adult offenders.
According to him, the initiative focuses on rehabilitation, counselling, therapy and skills acquisition for children who come into conflict with the law, rather than exposing them to harsh punishment and criminalization.
Dr. Mamah added that UNICEF was also providing psychosocial support and protection services for children traumatized by violence, attacks on schools and displacement, stressing that every child deserves safety, dignity and the opportunity to thrive.
