Omobola Johnson, the Nigerian communications minister, has created a group tasked with setting up a toll-free line that children in crises and victims of abuse can call.
The Child Helpline Steering Group (CHSG) will drive the setting up of three- or four-digit Child Helplines that will be easily accessible, free of charge and available round the clock.
Speaking at the inauguration, Johnson said the service is essential in order to help the abused children to find the much needed help in times of crises and urged members of the group to swiftly commence steps to ensure the fruition of the helpline initiative.
“It has become imperative to set up a national child helpline in Nigeria that abused children can contact for help speedily in a moment of pain and crisis to find help because children are vulnerable and should be protected,” she said.
Representatives from the Nigerian Police Force (NPF), Nigerian
Communications Commission (NCC), telecommunication companies, Nigeria Bar Association (NBA), Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Ministry of Youth, Ministry of Women Affairs, UNICEF, African charter on the rights and welfare of the child, and National Agency for prohibition of Traffic in Persons and other related matters (NAPTIP) are all part of the group.
In addition to helping abused children get help, the minister said it will also help in collating data on child abuse in Nigeria.
