Strengthening Justice for Children: NBA and UN Join Forces Against Violence and Unlawful Detention
On the 5th May 2025, the President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Mazi Afam Osigwe, SAN, received the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary General on Violence Against Children, Dr. Najat Maalla M’jid, and her delegation at the NBA National Secretariat, Abuja.
Welcoming the delegation, the NBA President introduced the structure and mission of the Association, with 130 branches across the federation and a national executive committee. He reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the protection of human rights and the rule of law. He highlighted the pivotal role of the NBA Human Rights Institute and other relevant committees in handling cases of abuse and injustice.
Of particular note was his emphasis on the NBA’s advocacy for regular visits to detention facilities by heads of courts to ensure compliance with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act, especially as it concerns children. He noted that the NBA has consistently filled the gap left by the underfunded legal aid services in Nigeria, providing legal assistance to the most vulnerable.
The President expressed appreciation for the UN delegation’s timely visit, especially as the detention and prosecution of children continue to raise pressing concerns. He welcomed future collaboration and proposed a dedicated session on access to justice for children at the forthcoming NBA Annual General Conference.
In response, the UN Special Representative emphasised that the visit aims to strengthen engagement with key stakeholders in the fight against violence toward children, with a particular focus on juvenile justice and the practice of trying children in open courts. She reaffirmed her office’s readiness to partner with the NBA to ensure meaningful reform in these critical areas.
This meeting marks a significant step forward in the NBA’s continued work to ensure that every child in Nigeria enjoys the full protection of the law.
“There can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way in which it treats its children.” — Nelson Mandela
