By Marie-Therese Nanlong
JOS — Twenty years after the Plateau State House of Assembly passed the Child Rights Law in 2005, the long-dormant legislation is finally coming alive as the State Government has inaugurated the Plateau State Child Rights Implementation Committee (PLASCRIC).
For two decades, the law—which was hailed as a landmark victory for child protection—remained largely symbolic, offering little relief to thousands of children facing abuse, neglect, exploitation, and lack of access to justice. But the inauguration of PLASCRIC at the Old Government House in Rayfield, Jos, has rekindled hope that the law will now be implemented in full.
Government officials, child rights advocates, and development partners described the event as a long-overdue step toward building a safer environment for children in the State.
Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Caroline Dafur—represented by the Director of Child Welfare, Sunday Dombin—said the inauguration marked “a significant step towards protecting the future of Plateau’s children.”
“Children are the livewire of every home, and their protection is a responsibility we must all uphold,” she said.
The committee is expected to coordinate agencies, strengthen accountability systems, and ensure that the rights guaranteed under the 2005 law—and under international conventions—are fully observed.
The Commissioner acknowledged the support of the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme, funded by the European Union and implemented by International IDEA, for helping the State finally activate the committee.
Nanret Agaba, Legal Adviser of the Child Protection Network and Chief State Counsel at the Ministry of Justice, explained that PLASCRIC’s mandate includes initiating actions that promote and safeguard children’s rights across Plateau communities.
“The best interest of the child must guide every decision, whether in our homes, schools, or institutions,” she said, urging parents, communities, and civil society to support the committee’s mission.
State Project Coordinator of RoLAC, Mantim Dala, described the inauguration as a shift “from promises to practice,” noting that the goal is to strengthen justice systems so vulnerable groups can access protection.
Child advocates including Sandra Chikan of the Child Protection Network and Augustine Onwe of SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria, also praised the government for reviving the long-neglected law and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting implementation.
PLASCRIC held its first meeting immediately after the inauguration, setting timelines and pledging to deliver “tangible and impactful” results.
For many observers, the activation of the committee signifies a long-awaited second chance for the State to safeguard its children. Two decades after the law was enacted, it is finally finding life—and for the children of Plateau, that renewed life signals hope.
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