As the Nigerian Children’s Day is marked nationwide today, UNICEF says the COVID-19 pandemic is threatening decades of progress that have been achieved in child rights.
In a statement to commemorate the day, UNICEF’s Country Director, Peter Hawkins described the COVID-19 year as challenging for everyone “not least of all, Nigeria’s children.”
He commended efforts at all levels of Nigerian government and society to protect education, health, and protection services in response to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on children.
“As we rightfully celebrate Nigerian children today, let us also remember that the COVID-19 crisis has been a child rights crisis – in Nigeria and around the world.
“Poverty is rising, inequality is growing, and the pandemic has often disrupted the essential services that secure the health, education and protection of children and young people.
“The longer the pandemic goes on, the more intense the impact on women and children.
“On this Nigerian Children’s Day, let us all agree that we cannot let one crisis compound another.
“The pandemic is threatening decades of progress we have made for children.
“Violence is perpetrated against one in four Nigerian children – and one in three Nigerian girls are sexually abused. This has only increased during the pandemic.
“Today of all days, we must commit to reinforce the protection mechanisms for all children.”
The UNICEF boss however noted that COVID-19 has taught a lesson that education takes place not only in schools – children can and should learn both in and out of school.
According to him, a learning continuum is critical, so that all children continue to get an education irrespective of their situation, location, or the pandemic.
“Nigerian children are resilient, talented and aspire to do great things. And it is our responsibility to give them the platform and encouragement to do just that.
“We know that protecting children and investing in women and families is not only the right thing to do – it has proven to be a sound economic choice and a cost-effective tool for national development.
“As we celebrate our children today, we must act in their best interests and deploy innovative solutions to fast-track learning and health services to build back better, for every Nigerian child,” he said.