First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu has urged Nigeria to take swift, evidence-driven action against child sexual exploitation and abuse, stressing that meaningful progress depends on policies rooted in research and reliable data rather than assumptions.
In her message commemorating the 2025 World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Abuse, observed globally on November 18, the First Lady said the year’s theme—“Strengthening the Protection of Children Against Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Abuse Through Evidence-Based Policy Making”—underscores the need for data-informed solutions.
She emphasized that every Nigerian child deserves to grow up free from fear and harm, calling for stronger collaboration among government bodies, civil society groups, traditional institutions, religious leaders, parents, teachers, and young people to create safer communities.
Senator Tinubu highlighted the need to reinforce child protection systems, including early reporting channels, survivor support services, and effective prosecution of offenders. She added that comprehensive data and rigorous research are essential to accurately understand the scale of child sexual abuse and to develop interventions that produce real results.
The First Lady also stressed the role of public awareness, community-led prevention efforts, and strong moral guidance in homes, noting that these measures would complement national policies aimed at safeguarding children.
She prayed for the protection of all Nigerian children and called for renewed national dedication to their safety and well-being.
The World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation and Sexual Abuse was established by the UN General Assembly in 2022 to promote awareness, prevention, survivor support, and accountability. The observance draws attention to the global prevalence of child sexual violence—including in conflict zones—and the long-term physical and psychological trauma survivors face.
It supports the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals, which seek to eliminate all forms of violence, exploitation, and harmful practices against children.
