The Child Protection Network (CPN) has inaugurated a technical working committee to protect children living in alternative care in Sokoto State.
According to the State Coordinator of CPN, Mr. Usman Ahmad-Suka, the committee aims to promote policies, programs, and services that improve the welfare of children living outside their family homes, such as in orphanages and shelters.
He explained that the initiative responds to the frequent neglect, poor education, and inadequate care faced by these children.
Ahmad-Suka added that the committee would work to implement an alternative care policy drafted by CPN, which is awaiting the Governor’s approval.
Malam Yusuf Ibrahim, the Director of Children Development and Protection in the Sokoto State Ministry of Women and Children Affairs and chairman of the committee, described the policy as a vital framework for guiding government and non-governmental organizations in caring for children in alternative care.
He stated that the committee, composed of government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, journalists, community groups, and humanitarian workers, would ensure the policy receives the necessary attention and support for effective implementation.
The District Head of Gagi, Alhaji Sani Umar-Jabbi, also expressed support for the policy, assuring that traditional and religious leaders would help address cases of abuse and neglect in alternative care homes.
CPN and its partners said the committee’s multi-sectoral approach would promote safer, more supportive environments for vulnerable children in Sokoto.