FG, Nigerian Medical Association, others sign agreement to protect women, children’s rights

In a bid to protect the rights and safety of women and children in Nigeria, the federal government and different organisations met recently.

Hosted by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, Barr. Uju Kennedy Ohanenye, the Nigeria Medical Association, Hotel Owners Association, National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Public and Private Schools Association, CSOs, and non-governmental organisations NGOs met at the Ministry’s conference room in Abuja.

Kennedy, while opening the meeting stressed the importance of implementing digital and physical safeguards around schools, hotels, and hospitals to deter sexual and gender-based violence, bullying, and to prioritize the lives of women and children in emergencies.

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She announced that an agreement would be signed to ensure proper synergy and collaboration in enforcing the new directives across hospitals, schools, and hotels. “CSOs will also assist in ensuring that the agreement is properly enforced and implemented,” she said.

Applauding the Minister’s initiative, the National President of the Hotel Owners Association, HRH Dr. Patrick Anyanwu, promised to ensure that all 36 states comply with the rule “prohibiting the lodging of underage girls and children in hotels”.

Violators will be prosecuted, which he believes will significantly reduce crime and societal menace.

Comrade Lucky Emonefe, President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), appreciated the Minister’s efforts to secure the lives of Nigerian children and students. He assured the Ministry of NANS’ collaboration and outlined plans to promote adherence to the new directives.