Adetutu Oshinusi

As part of the initiative to foster civic responsibility and legal awareness among young people, Fluorescent Secondary School visited the Directorate for Citizens Rights under the Lagos Ministry of Justice to understudy the Child Rights Law of the State on Monday, 22nd of July at the conference room of the Ministry, Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja. Speaking during the visit, the Director DCR, Ms. Adetutu Oshinusi expressed her enthusiasm about the visit, noting that it is inspiring to see young minds taking an active interest in understanding their rights and the laws that protect them. The Director stated that the Directorate is responsible for implementing the State Government policy in providing access to justice, quick and free to all residents of Lagos State via Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR).  “The general objective of the Directorate, is to actively raise the awareness of the indigents in Lagos State on their fundamental rights as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution and encourage consumer consciousness and also create a veritable tool for citizens to express their fears and expectations”, she said. Oshinusi further explained that there are various initiatives and programs that have been put in place by the State Government, targeted at protecting the rights of children, especially the Child Rights Law enacted to ensure that children enjoy special care, assistance and social protection. She opined that the law allows children to enjoy special care and assistance, as well as social protection which will equally foster their socio-economic welfare and enhance the successful building of the nation. However, she commended the initiative applied by the school authorities to visit the ministry and hoped that it sets a precedent for other schools. Also speaking, the Deputy Director, Mrs. Oredipe stated that the Child Rights Law in Lagos State has been designed to protect and promote the rights and welfare of children in the State. She mentioned that some of the key rights and provisions in the Child Rights Law of Lagos State include; the Right to Education, Right to Freedom of Expression, Right to Name and Nationality, Right to Health and Health Services, Right to Survival and Development, amongst others. Oredipe further explained that services provided by the Directorate are free regardless the age, gender, social status or religious beliefs. She advised the students to spread the knowledge gained during the interactive session against discrimination, child abuse and infringement of children’s rights. Social Welfare Officer attached to the Directorate, Mr. Adedeji Henry said that social workers play a crucial role in the implementation and enforcement of the Child Rights Law. “Some of these roles include Advocacy and Awareness, Child Protection, Case Management, Foster Care and Adoption, Support for the Vulnerable, Psychosocial Support amongst others”, He said. Mr. Henry also noted that to ensure children’s rights are protected promoted across various domains, the Directorate has collaborated with other stakeholders to create a safe and supportive environment for all children in Lagos State. Responding, the Civic Education Teacher, Fluorescent Sec. School, Mrs. Solomon highlighted the importance of the visit, stating that the goal is to educate the students beyond the classroom. Understanding the Child Rights Law is crucial for their development as responsible citizens who are aware of their rights and responsibilities. “We are immensely grateful to the Lagos State Government, Ministry of Justice and the Directorate of Citizens Rights for welcoming our students and providing them with such valuable learning experience. The insights gained today will undoubtedly shape their understanding of justice and their roles in upholding it”, she said. Whilst extending her gratitude, a student of Fluorescent Sec. School, Oludemi Anjola said that the experience has been incredibly enlightening and it has deepened their understanding of the Child Rights Law and its importance in the society. “We are especially thankful to the Directorate of Citizens Rights for this invaluable opportunity and for their commitment to justice and welfare of children in Lagos State”, she said.