This comprehensive framework aims to create a more preventive and coordinated approach to child welfare, addressing risks faced by children at home, in schools, and online. Notably, it emphasizes protections for children with disabilities and those interacting with the justice system.
As part of its mandate to keep laws relevant and effective, LAWRECOM has engaged stakeholders to provide a robust legal foundation for initiatives like the Lagos Boy Child Initiative. The proposed framework offers a clearer allocation of responsibilities for institutions and professionals tasked with safeguarding children.
Mandatory reporting of abuse will be instituted, along with improved investigation methods and professional standards. An electronic tracking system for missing children is also in the works, designed to enhance coordination among agencies and expedite response efforts.
Mrs. Oluyemisi Ogunlola, Executive Secretary of LAWRECOM, emphasized that the draft links child rights with institutional accountability and reporting duties. "Our approach shifts from reactive protection to proactive prevention," she stated.
The new framework prioritizes mental health and psychosocial support, aiming to identify risks before they escalate into serious harm. Provisions include early intervention programs for children facing emotional distress, substance abuse, and other challenges.
Special attention is given to children with disabilities, ensuring they receive inclusive support and are protected from stigma. The framework also addresses the treatment of children in conflict with the law, focusing on rehabilitation and reintegration rather than incarceration.
For children unable to live with biological parents, the proposals recognize kinship care, foster care, and adoption, backed by stronger oversight and standards for childcare services. Support will also be available for young people transitioning out of state care.
Highlighting the importance of holistic child development, the Lagos Boy Child Initiative aims to provide equal opportunities for boys and girls, promoting access to education, healthcare, and positive mentorship.
Families remain crucial in nurturing children, and the proposed reforms encourage parents, guardians, and teachers to familiarize themselves with existing laws and new responsibilities.
The proposals will undergo governmental and legislative processes before implementation, with public awareness and stakeholder participation key to translating legal provisions into effective child protection.
These reforms align with the Social Inclusion pillar of the THEMES Plus Development Agenda, enhancing protections for vulnerable children and promoting their overall well-being. LAWRECOM’s efforts aim to establish a responsive framework for child safety in Lagos State's evolving society.
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