UNICEF pushes for stronger child protection, warns of rising abuse cases in Northeast

UNICEF pushes for stronger child protection, warns of rising abuse cases in Northeast

By Auwal Ahmad umar

The United Nations Children’s Fund has called for intensified efforts to safeguard children across Northeast Nigeria, raising concerns over increasing cases of abuse and neglect affecting vulnerable minors.

The appeal was made by Nuzhat Rafique, Chief of the organisation’s Bauchi Field Office, at a stakeholders’ roundtable on child rights advocacy covering Adamawa, Bauchi, and Gombe states.

Ms Rafique said child protection must be treated as a continuous responsibility, stressing that every child is entitled to safety, care, and dignity from birth.

She explained that a child’s rights begin with proper registration at birth, which she described as essential for recognition and access to basic services such as healthcare and education.

Beyond registration, she highlighted survival and health as critical priorities, noting that preventable deaths among mothers and newborns remain a challenge in Nigeria. According to her, improving access to quality healthcare and immunisation is key to ensuring children survive and thrive.

“Every child has the right to be protected from diseases that can be prevented,” she said, adding that gaps in immunisation continue to expose many children to avoidable illnesses.

On nutrition, Ms Rafique underscored the importance of exclusive breastfeeding in the first six months of life, describing it as a vital step in strengthening a child’s immunity. She, however, expressed concern over widespread malnutrition in parts of the Northeast, attributing it largely to poor feeding practices and limited awareness among caregivers.

She noted that although Nigeria has abundant food resources, many families lack the knowledge required to provide balanced diets for children, a situation that contributes to high rates of under-five mortality.

Ms Rafique raised alarm over what she described as disturbing incidents of child abuse in the region, including cases involving very young children.

She said such violations have lasting physical and psychological consequences, stressing that children are often unable to defend themselves or speak out.

“Protection is not optional. When children are exposed to harm, it affects their entire future,” she said.

She added that survivors of abuse must have access to support services, including medical care and counselling, to help them recover and rebuild their lives.

The UNICEF official linked many of the challenges to a lack of awareness among parents and communities, noting that simple preventive measures could significantly reduce risks.

She cautioned against leaving young children unattended or sending them out alone, particularly at vulnerable hours, as this increases their exposure to danger.

According to her, better-informed parents are more likely to create safer environments for their children.

Ms Rafique identified education as a key tool in addressing long-term child protection challenges. She said ensuring that every child is in school would help build a generation that understands its rights and responsibilities.

“Education is the foundation for change. When children are educated, they grow into adults who can protect and nurture the next generation,” she said.

She urged governments, communities, and stakeholders to strengthen systems that protect children and ensure their rights to safety, health, and development are upheld.

The roundtable forms part of ongoing efforts by UNICEF to promote awareness and drive coordinated action to improve child welfare across the region.