By: Ahmed Rufa’i, Dutse
Schools’ Children from Jigawa, Kano and Katsina states have appealed to the media to intensify to straighten an advocacy on the protection of children’s rights, especially in areas of education, nutrition and social justice.
The call was made during a panel discussion organised by United Nation Children Education’s Fund (UNICEF) marking the 2025 World Children’s Day at Tahir Hotel, where the session brought together child representatives from the three states who voiced concerns over rising numbers of out-of-school children, malnutrition, weak healthcare delivery, inadequate school security, child abuse, and poor hygiene.
They stressed that full implementation of existing policies such as the Child Protection Law and Nutrition Policy would significantly address the barriers affecting children’s survival and development.
The children further urged UNICEF, government agencies, the media and the public to intensify collaboration on policies and programmes that safeguard their wellbeing and secure a better future for every child.
Speaking at the event, Chief of UNICEF Kano Field Office, Mr. Rahama Rihood Mohammed Farah, said UNICEF continues to provide technical and financial support to improve child survival and development indicators across the region.
He noted that recent reports show increased government and public commitment to child rights protection, as well as improvements in immunisation coverage, access to basic education, and primary healthcare — alongside reductions in child mortality, malnutrition and the out-of-school population.
“As we celebrate these gains, we also acknowledge the major challenges that remain,” he said. “UNICEF will continue to work with all stakeholders to support interventions that enhance the survival and development of children.”
