First Lady urges evidence-based action to protect children on World Day against sexual exploitation and abuse

From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja

Nigeria’s First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu, has emphasised the urgency of protecting Nigerian children through informed and actionable policies on World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Abuse, 2025

Marking the global observance under the theme “Strengthening the Protection of Children Against Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Abuse Through Evidence-Based Policy Making,” the First Lady highlighted the critical need to move beyond rhetoric and good intentions. She stressed that safeguarding children is a task that requires accurate data, rigorous research, and effective policies to ensure meaningful impact.

“Protecting children must go beyond words and good intentions. It demands informed action, guided by accurate data, research, and sound policies,” Senator Tinubu stated.

She called on all sectors of Nigerian society — including government agencies, civil society groups, traditional and religious leaders, parents, and youth — to collaborate in creating an environment where children can live without fear and grow up free from harm.

“As a nation, we must ensure that every child grows up free from fear and harm. I call on government agencies, civil society, traditional and religious leaders, parents, and young people to work together to create a protective environment where children can feel safe to thrive,” she added.

The First Lady underscored Nigeria’s commitment to tackling the challenges of child sexual exploitation and abuse with evidence-driven solutions, aiming to foster a safer future for the nation’s most vulnerable population.

Closing her message with a prayer of protection for all children, the First Lady invoked divine safeguarding over Nigeria’s young ones: “May God protect all our children.”