SAFETY OF NIGERIAN CHILD IS NOT NEGOTIABLE, SAYS SARAKI

“Furthermore, the safety of the Nigerian child is non-negotiable. We, therefore, today, make an unequivocal call for the release of all Nigerian Children in captivity. We remember Leah Sharibu and the other Dapchi Girls – as well as those Chibok Girls still in captivity, on this symbolic day. We affirm their right to freedom, to live carefree with their loved ones, to go to school, and for their dreams to remain intact.

“We urge all relevant authorities not to relent in the efforts to see that Leah Sharibu and all who are held captive are returned safe and unharmed. We must intensify efforts for the release of our Children, even as we felicitate with the families of all who have been released,” he said.

He noted that the issues of violence against children, child molestation, child labour and other evils committed against children – remain a grave concern.

“Last year, we held a consultative session in the Senate with the Speakers of State Houses of Assembly that had not domesticated the Child Rights Act; and I am encouraged to see that there has been some significant progress with reviewing the law to suit the local context in those states’.

“And so, on this 2018 Children’s Day, I congratulate all Nigerian children. I join the entire members of the Legislature, Executive, Judiciary and All Nigerians in wishing the Nigerian Child a Happy Children’s Day. We pledge that we shall always work for a Safe and Nourishing environment for our Children to grow and prosper,” he stated.