By Hajara Leman
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has urged stakeholders to promote and protect child rights in Gombe, Bauchi and Adamawa.
Dr Nuzhat Rafique, UNICEF Chief of Field Office, Bauchi, said this at a one-day stakeholders’ engagement, in Gombe.
She said child rights begin at birth, highlighting the importance of birth registration, breastfeeding, access to quality healthcare, proper nutrition and basic education.
According to Rafique, protection of children from all forms of harm is a fundamental right that parents must recognise.
She said children deserve care and respect, describing them as gifts from God and future leaders.
Rafique encouraged parents to utilise local varieties in processing baby feeds to address malnutrition, a major cause of child mortality.
Mrs Ladi Alabi, Child Protection Specialist, UNICEF, said that child rights cover a wide range of issues, and urged stakeholders to fully understand and apply them into practice to prevent violence and sexual abuse against children.
“Increased awareness is crucial in preventing child rights violations. Participants must remain committed to reduce such cases,” she said.
Alhaji Idris Atiku, District Head of Barunde-Kumo Community in Akko Local Government Area of the state, described the engagement as timely and relevant.
While commending the media for their role in awareness creation, Atiku pledged to step down the message to mobilise participation at the grassroots.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Rabiu Sani-Ali
