FG to review adoption rules to prevent abuse

The Federal Government is set to review its adoption regulations to strengthen the adoption process and prevent violence and other forms of abuse against children.

Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, said this at a news conference organised in collaboration with Save the Children International (SCI) for Children’s Day celebration, in Abuja.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim explained that the move aimed to ensure children’s rights and welfare were protected, and that adoption procedures were transparent, efficient, and child-centred.

She added that plans were underway to roll out revised National Creche Guidelines to regulate and prevent abuse in childcare facilities.

“We are establishing the Child Protection Knowledge and Data Centre. We are finalising the Child Protection Services structure, including formal protection, reporting, response, and rehabilitation.

“We are also promoting the approved six-month maternity leave for new mothers and two weeks’ paternity leave for new fathers.

“We are reviewing adoption regulations to strengthen processes that prevent abuse in that space,” she said.

She added that the government was also working to strengthen the Nigerian Children’s Parliament at both national and state levels.

“We recognise it as a vital platform for child participation, leadership, and advocacy on development issues.

“The voices of our children matter, and we must amplify them in shaping policies that affect their present and future,” she said.

Also, Duncan Harvey, Country Director of SCI, stressed the importance of including children in identifying challenges affecting them and proposing solutions.(NAN)