Schoolchildren from Jigawa, Kano, and Katsina states have called on the media to intensify advocacy for children’s rights, especially in education, nutrition, and social justice.

The appeal came during a panel discussion organised by UNICEF to mark 2025 World Children’s Day at Tahir Hotel. Participants raised concerns over rising numbers of out-of-school children, malnutrition, weak healthcare systems, inadequate school security, child abuse, and poor hygiene.

The children emphasised the need for full implementation of existing policies, including the Child Protection Law and Nutrition Policy, to remove barriers hindering children’s survival and development. They urged UNICEF, government agencies, the media, and the public to strengthen collaboration on programmes that safeguard children’s well-being.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Rahama Rihood Mohammed Farah, Chief of UNICEF Kano Field Office, highlighted UNICEF’s ongoing technical and financial support to improve child survival and development indicators across the region. He noted improvements in immunisation coverage, access to basic education, and primary healthcare, alongside reductions in child mortality, malnutrition, and out-of-school populations.

“As we celebrate these gains, we also acknowledge the major challenges that remain,” he said, reaffirming UNICEF’s commitment to support interventions that enhance the survival and development of children.