UNICEF Pushes for Stronger Child Justice Reforms at Nigerian Bar Association Conference

By Efa Sunday 


The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has called for urgent reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s legal and institutional frameworks protecting children’s rights. Speaking at the 2025 Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Annual General Conference in Enugu, the agency emphasized the need to end child detention, ensure access to legal aid for vulnerable children, and promote justice that reflects international child rights standards.


The four-day conference, which runs from August 25 to 28 at Michael Okpara Square, Enugu, brings together key legal professionals, policymakers, and child protection advocates. UNICEF said its participation includes high-level engagements, panel discussions, and interactive exhibitions designed to spotlight critical child protection issues across the country. “We are here to work with the legal community to bridge the gaps in enforcement and improve access to justice for every Nigerian child,” said Mr. Ibrahim Sesay, Chief of Child Protection, UNICEF Nigeria.



Among the notable speakers at the conference are Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN; Prof. Uchenna Emelonye, who will moderate the Justice for Children plenary; Prof. Joy Ezeilo, SAN; AIG Ohiozoba Ehiede; Justice Theresa Obot; Prof. Muhammed Tawfiq Ladan; Dr. Uju Agomoh of PRAWA; Barr. James Ibor; James Kayode David; and Ms. Nkiru Maduechesi of UNICEF. Key sessions are scheduled daily from 11:00 am to 1:30 pm.


UNICEF noted that while Nigeria has made legislative progress on child rights, major challenges remain in enforcement, accessibility, and implementation. “Despite notable legal reforms, children in conflict with the law still face detention, inadequate legal aid, and prolonged trials,” Mr. Sesay added. The organization stressed that effective legal reforms must be accompanied by stronger institutional support and collaboration with state actors.


The partnership between UNICEF and the Nigerian Bar Association aims to galvanize the legal profession to advocate for child justice reforms, end violence against children, and build systems that prioritize the best interests of the child. The conference provides what UNICEF describes as a “strategic platform to engage lawyers, judges, and policymakers in strengthening child protection systems nationwide.”

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