by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Observes International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking
Theme: The evidence is clear: invest in prevention
Today, FIDA Nigeria unites with the global community to recognise the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking commemorated on the 26th of June annually. This year’s theme, “The evidence is clear: invest in prevention,” resonates deeply with our mission to foster a healthier and more just society in Nigeria while raising awareness of the diverse problems that the use of illicit drugs and substances pose to any society.
Our commitment at FIDA Nigeria in combating this menace is rooted in a community-focused approach, as can be seen from our concerted advocacy and outreaches including various initiatives, such as the Youth Advocacy Program and Women Empowerment Workshops, aimed at educating and empowering vulnerable groups, particularly women and youth, to resist the lure of drugs, discourage the usage of illicit substances and encourage their engagement in positive, productive activities.
FIDA Nigeria’s continuous collaboration with schools, religious institutions and community leaders is geared towards implementing evidence-based prevention programs, some of which include:
- Educational Campaigns: Providing schools with curriculum support and training teachers to deliver effective drug education.
- Community Outreaches and Advocacy: Organizing workshops and seminars in rural and urban areas to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
- Healthcare Access: Partnering with healthcare providers to ensure that individuals struggling with substance abuse have access to comprehensive treatment and support services.
As trailblazers in advocacy, we have adopted a holistic approach to create awareness and address not only the immediate dangers of drug abuse but also the socio-economic factors that contribute to it, We believe that by empowering individuals with knowledge, skills, and support, we can create a ripple effect that strengthens entire communities and the society at large.
We therefore call on Government, policymakers, change drivers, public and private sector, stakeholders, community leaders, and every citizen to support and invest in these preventive measures. By so doing, we can build a resilient society where every individual has the opportunity to thrive, completely free from the dangers of drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
As we commemorate this important day today, let us commit firmly to taking concrete and visible actions that will pave the way for a future free from the scourge of drug abuse and illicit trafficking. Together, we can make a lasting impact and collectively strengthen our actions for a society free of drug abuse!
Signed
Amina Suzanah Agbaje (Mrs.)
Country Vice/National President
FIDA Nigeria
worlddrugday #stopdrugabuse #theevidenceisclear #investinprotection
26june
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria Epe commemorated Children’s Day with Child Advocacy Outreach to two campuses of Chrisland School, Lekki and VGC.
FIDA Nigeria Epe commemorated Children’s Day with Child Advocacy Outreach to two campuses of Chrisland School, Lekki and VGC.
The Lekki team ably led by our Chairperson, Olufunke Oduwole spoke to the children on the Girl and Boy Child as role models. Bullying , Drug Addiction and Child in a digital world were extensively discussed by the delegation made up of Uchenna Ogwo (GS), Amaka Aneke (Treasurer) , Genevin Kris-Njoku(Welfare), Omolara Elsie Jinadu and Ibrokam Akai. There was role play, question and answer session and presentation of gifts.
Simultaneously in the VGC campus, the team ably led by our Vice chairperson Sotonye Amachree discussed the same topics. Ogechi Olisa-Mokelu (PRO) , Cynthia Igwebuike (AGS) , Abiye Tam-George , Ebinimi Afrogha were all in attendance . It was an interactive session with question and answer session and presentation of gifts.
The school management thanked FIDA Nigeria Epe for celebrating their children and assured us that all that was taught would be put into practice.
by FIDAFIDA Nigeria on World Day against Child Labour“Let’s Act on Our Commitments: End Child Labour”
The International Federation of Women Lawyers – FIDA Nigeria, stands in solidarity with the global community on this pivotal world day against Child Labour commemorated annually on the 12th of June. This year’s observance coincides with the 25th anniversary of the adoption of the Worst Forms of Child Labour Convention 1999, and the theme “Let’s Act on Our Commitments: End Child Labour”, underscores the urgent need to unite efforts in eradicating the scourge of child labour that continues to devastate our nation in its various forms.
The plight of the Nigerian child in the face of child labour is one of profound suffering and lost potential. According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO), about 15 million children in Nigeria are trapped in child labour, with about 160 million children involved in child labour globally, representing 1 out of every 10 children. These statistics are frightening as they are not just numbers, but actual children forced into work at tender ages mostly under harsh and often dangerous conditions, deprived of their childhood and the hope of a great future.
Envision the girl-child in a rural village, rising before dawn to fetch water, cook and clean, before heading to a market to sell goods for her family’s survival. She dreams of going to school, but her day is consumed by laborious tasks that leave her exhausted and without hope for an education.
Visualise the boy child in an urban sprawl, working in a hazardous environment in a local factory, inhaling toxic fumes and handling dangerous machinery. His hands, calloused and bruised, tell a story of toil and hardship that no child should ever have to go through. His dream of a brighter and better future and endless opportunities fade with each passing day spent in labour, instead of learning.
These stories are not isolated incidents or mere imagination, but the pervasive reality for millions of Nigerian children. The COVID-19 pandemic which was closely followed by economic challenges exacerbated this crisis, plunging more families into poverty and increasing the likelihood of children being forced into work to help sustain their households.
FIDA Nigeria alarmed by this growing scourge and the severe and lasting impact of child labour on children emphasises on the dire need for change. Deprived of education, subjected to physical, emotional and sexual abuse, these children are stripped of basic rights and their dignity. The vicious cycle of poverty and exploitation not only stifles their potential but poses a significant threat to Nigeria’s socio-economic development as a nation.
Legal Framework Against Child Labour
Nigeria has established laws and ratified international conventions to combat child labour, yet implementation remains woefully inadequate. Key legal instruments include:
• Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended):
• Criminal Code Act
• The Child Rights Act (CRA) 2003: This legislation aligns with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACRWC), setting the minimum age for employment at 18 years and guaranteeing children’s rights to education and protection from exploitation.
• Labour Act Cap L1 LFN 2004: This Act prohibits the employment of children under the age of 12 and sets stringent regulations against hazardous work for those under the age of 18.
• Trafficking in Persons (Prohibition) Law Enforcement and Administrative Act 2015
• Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act 2015
• Cybercrime Act 2015
• Disability Act 2018: Prohibits the use of persons with disability (including children) for begging
• Compulsory, Free Universal Basic Education Act 2004
• International Labour Organisation (ILO) Conventions: Nigeria is a signatory to the ILO Convention No. 138 on the Minimum Age for Admission to Employment and Convention No. 182 on the Worst Forms of Child Labour, mandating immediate action to eradicate child labour.
• Sustainable Development Goal 8 (Target 8.7): Which calls for global commitment in adopting effective measures to eradicate and secure the elimination of child labour in all forms by the year 2025.
However, despite these robust legal frameworks, enforcement is critically lacking and at an all-time low. Factors such as inadequate resources, poor monitoring/enforcement of existing legislations on child labour and societal acceptance of child labour further perpetuate this grave issue.
Sequel to these and with the determination and commitment to stem the pervasive tide of child labour, FIDA Nigeria makes this crucial call on government, civil society organisations, international partners, public and private sectors, stakeholders and every well-meaning Nigerian to urgently address this crisis. FIDA is advocating for:
- Strengthened Enforcement: Rigorously implementing existing laws that prohibit child labour, with violators being held accountable.
- Adoption of National Policies: National policies that address the root causes and heightened proliferation of child labour.
- Universal Education: Education is a basic right, and all children should have access to quality education with removal of barriers such as school fees and safety concerns.
- Increased Awareness: Raise public consciousness and create awareness of the damaging effects of child labour and the non-negotiable protection of children’s rights.
- Economic Support: Government to provide social protection programs and financial assistance to alleviate the economic pressures that drive families to send their children to labour.
The story of the Nigerian child should not be one of labour and lost dreams. Together, let us act on our commitment to build a Nigeria where every child can learn, grow, and thrive in a safe and nurturing environment. The future of our nation certainly depends on the well-being and development of its youngest citizens. We need to collectively act to ensure that the elimination of child labour from our society becomes a reality!
FOR: FIDA Nigeria
Amina Suzanah Agbaje, (Mrs.)
Country Vice President/National President
FIDA Nigeria