Sep 14, 2009 - Launch Of "Local Champions”
I congratulate and commend the Chairman, Trustees and other officials of Sponsor A Child for initiating this project “Local Champions” being launched today to enhance and develop the capacity of child caregivers in Nigerian institutions and law officers charged with the enforcement of child protection
Today, the Nigerian child is faced with various challenges including child trafficking, child abuse and molestation all of which have serious consequences on their ability to realise their full potentials as a future leaders. This situation must give everyone serious cause for concern because a child that is denied his or her rights and opportunities to build a solid foundation for a brighter future will become a liability and threat to the peace and security of the society.
This is why the plight of children at risk and in difficult situations must be seen as collective challenge that must be addressed through the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders including the government, NGOs, donor agencies, community based organisations etc.
I am particularly delighted by the emphasis being placed on the aspect of law enforcement during the forthcoming workshops in October. This aspect is highly essential because the effectiveness of the various laws and conventions on child rights protection including the Child Rights Law will be determined by the level of our commitment to their enforcement.
It will interest you to know that in Lagos State, concrete steps are already being taken to ensure effective enforcement of the Child Rights Law through the Yellow Card initiative. This initiative seeks to ensure that no school age child is seen roaming the streets or hawking during school hours. In other words, no child in Lagos State must be denied his or her right to education.
I am therefore proud to associate with this laudable initiative and also applaud the supportive role of Procter and Gamble Plc and UNICEF, Lagos. I implore everyone to support the management of Sponsor A Child in their efforts to realise the objectives of this project in the interest of our future and the future of the Nigerian Child.
Once again, I congratulate the Chairman, Trustees and management of Sponsor A Child and wish you successful executive of the project Local Champions.
Thank you and God bless you all.
Her Excellency
Mrs. Abimbola Fashola
First Lady of Lagos State