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By Adewale Sanyaolu
The National Association of Seadogs (NAS), Pyrates Confraternity, embarked on an advocacy project over the weekend, focusing on the importance of the Child Rights Act (CRA).
The project, held at the Juvenile Correctional Centre for Boys in Oregun, Lagos, was facilitated by NAS Festac Chapter, also known as Saratoga X Deck, and the Ikeja Chapter, Panama Deck, in collaboration with the Chigozie Frank and Nnamdi Uzokwe Foundations. The event commemorated World Human Rights Day 2024.
In a lecture titled “Challenges Inherent in Juvenile Justice Administration in Nigeria: Way Forward”, Uzokwe highlighted issues within Nigeria’s juvenile justice system and the rights of minors as stipulated in the Child Rights Act.
He explained that the Child Rights Act (2003) is the law that guarantees the rights of all children in Nigeria. So far, 24 of the 36 states in Nigeria have adopted the CRA as state law, leaving 12 states yet to incorporate the Act into their legal framework.
A child, as defined by the CRA, is any person under the age of 18. The National Human Rights Commission, as part of its mandate to promote, protect, and enforce the rights of all citizens and foreign nationals in Nigeria, undertakes measures to safeguard the rights of children, recognising their vulnerability.
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Uzokwe reminded the juveniles that their rights are protected under the law, encouraging them to remain law-abiding, resist social pressures, and avoid actions that could lead to their return to the correctional facility.
He further identified challenges in juvenile custody, including overcrowded facilities, poor funding, and inadequate implementation of the CRA.
In his address to the inmates, the Capoon of Saratoga X Deck, Mr Obinna Chukwukere, reprimanded and advised the juveniles to avoid crime, remain focused on personal and career development, and always obey the law. He assured them that their potential is limitless if they remain resolute and committed to positive change.
The former NAS Capoon, Mr Abiola Owoaje, also urged the inmates to take their skill acquisition training seriously, assuring them that NAS members would support their reintegration into society by offering employment opportunities once they regain their freedom.
Members of both chapters present inspired the inmates with messages of hope, encouraging them to nurture their dreams, avoid anti-social behaviours, and look forward to a brighter future upon their release.
As part of its intervention, NAS has initiated discussions with the facility’s management to provide pro bono legal services for inmates unable to afford court-imposed fines, aiming to facilitate their timely release.
