The Case for Acceding to the HCCH 1996 Child Protection Convention: Views on Nigeria (HCCH Approach Initiative | Celebrating the 25th Anniversary)

There is a well-known proverb. I am sure that many have come across it, the saying it takes a whole village to raise a child. This proverb exists in many African languages; it conveys a message of devotion, self-sacrifice, sharing, supporting, family relationships and growth.

To echo the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, the promotion and protection of the rights and welfare of the child also implies the performance of duties on the part of everyone…everyone…. So yes, a village to raise a child, a village to protect a child. That village includes the nurturing mothers and fathers, sisters and brothers, cousins, grandparents, godparents, aunties, uncles, and when I say aunties and uncles, that usually means anyone who is 5 years your senior… the collective few or many trying to ensure that the best interest of that child is at the foremost in all actions.

A village to protect a child. But see, in my vision that village includes those who champion the legal protection of a child to preserve their freedom, dignity, and security.

The Nigerian Child Rights Act 2003 expressly states that a child’s best interest shall be the primary consideration and be of paramount consideration in all actions. That village of people signifies any and everyone who has the power to refine and strengthen measures that will promote the protection of the Nigerian child or any child living in Nigeria.