Abuja: The Kano state government has introduced a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) framework aimed at strengthening the administration of child justice, diversion, and accountability within the region. This initiative is being carried out in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the framework was developed during a two-day workshop organized by the Kano Ministry of Justice under the Justice for Children (J4C) programme, with support from UNICEF. The workshop, themed ‘Strengthening Child Justice through Diversion, Coordination and Accountability in Kano state,’ focused on creating a clear framework for justice sector institutions to handle cases involving children in conflict with the law.
Ms. Fatima Adamu, Child Protection Specialist at UNICEF, emphasized that the SOP would guide justice sector actors, offering an alternative approach to handling minor offences committed by children. She noted that the global trend in child justice is shifting toward restorative justice rather than punitive measures, which allows children to undergo rehabilitation and reintegration instead of detention.
UNICEF will continue to support the Kano state government through technical assistance, capacity building, and coordination with relevant institutions. Adamu highlighted UNICEF’s involvement in training justice sector stakeholders on child protection issues and coordinating efforts to address gender-based violence and support survivors.
Mr. Idris Bawa, a UNICEF Consultant, presented a paper advocating for a child rights-based approach to justice administration. He highlighted the need for child-friendly justice, diversion, rehabilitation, and restorative justice as essential components of the new framework.
Abdulkarim Maude (SAN), the Kano Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, praised the workshop’s timing and its potential to enhance the protection of children’s rights. He emphasized the importance of effectively implementing the SOP to promote restorative justice and reduce unnecessary prosecution of children.
The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, represented by Mahe Bashir-Wali, endorsed the SOP as a significant step toward implementing the Kano Child Protection Law 2023. He called for traditional institutions to partner with the government in raising awareness about child protection laws.
The event was attended by a diverse group of stakeholders, including judges, magistrates, law enforcement officers, legal practitioners, government officials, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organizations, and development partners.