The Plateau State Government on Thursday inaugurated the Child Rights Implementation Committees across some Local Government Areas (LGAs) of the state.
Truthng reports that the Local Alternative Care Committees were also inaugurated for the LGAs.
Speaking at the event, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Ms Caroline Dakur, said that the initiative aimed at ensuring the safety of children in the state.
Dakur, who decried the spate of child abuse and trafficking, noted that the committee aimed at tackling the menace.
She added that the move would promote the welfare of children in the state, particularly those in rural communities.
“This committee is part of the provision of the Child Rights Law that we have since domesticated in the state.
“This administration is committed to ensuring that every Plateau child has equal opportunity to thrive; the welfare of our children is a priority for Gov. Caleb Mutfwang.
“So, we are here today to inaugurate the child rights implementation committee at the local government levels to promote the welfare and ensure total protection for our children,” she said.
Dakur advised members of the committee to live above board and be committed to the course of the Plateau child.
The commissioner explained that the initiative was funded by European Union and implemented by International Idea.
She added that the move was in collaboration with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (ROLAC II) Programme, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) and SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria.
Speaking, the Coordinator of ROLAC in Plateau, Mr Mantim Dala, said that the organisation had supported several initiatives towards ensuring access to justice for all.
He added that ROLAC had also supported initiatives aimed at promoting accountability and transparency in government’s institutions.
“Our approach is focusing on three key components with strengthening criminal justice, enabling agencies to work efficiency and perform assigned duties perfectly
“The second approach is the one that deals with access to justice for vulnerable persons, such as women, children and persons with disabilities; and that is the component that is responsible for supporting for this programme.
“Our last component is transforming transparency and accountability systems.
“So, what we are doing today is not just timely, but the right step towards safeguarding the future of our children.
