UNICEF Unveils New Strategy to Tackle Child Abuse and Marriage in Nigeria

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has announced a sharpened focus on child protection in Nigeria, placing child abuse, child marriage, and poor birth registration at the centre of its new country strategy. The organisation said the new priorities aim to reach millions of vulnerable children who remain excluded from essential services.

According to UNICEF, six out of ten children in Nigeria are affected by abuse, a staggering statistic that underscores the urgency of the intervention. The strategy is designed to strengthen systems and community-based responses to protect children from violence, exploitation, and harmful practices.

Child marriage remains a critical issue, with Nigeria having one of the highest rates in the world. Poor birth registration also leaves many children without a legal identity, hindering their access to healthcare, education, and social protection.

UNICEF’s new approach signals a renewed commitment to addressing these deep-rooted challenges through targeted programmes and partnerships with the Nigerian government and civil society. The organisation has called for increased investment and political will to turn the strategy into tangible results for the most vulnerable children.

Article and image source: primanews.org