In a decisive move, the Federal Government of Nigeria has prohibited the lodging of underage girls in hotels nationwide effective june 20, 2024. Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, made the announcement during a ceremony in Abuja.
Kennedy-Ohanenye emphasized that severe penalties await any hotel found accommodating underage girls. The directive is aiming to curb exploitation and protect vulnerable youth.
The event, organized by Madam Abiola Arogundade, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Technical, Vocational, and Entrepreneurship Education, witnessed Kennedy-Ohanenye’s stern warning to hospitals as well. She urged them to cease rejecting emergency cases they can handle, citing numerous complaints.
Women Affairs Minister opined that the fight against these issues extends beyond one person; it is a collective effort. Nigerians are encouraged to hold hotels and hospitals accountable, leveraging social media to address concerns.
“From the 20th, in all hotels, there will not be lodging of underage girls. I mean it. No more lodging of underage girls; no more bullying.
“And in the hospitals, no more rejection of emergency cases.
“These are some of the major issues we are addressing. Any hospital that does that, I will call on all Nigerians, I am proud of Nigerians, the way you are using social media to attack issues.
“This is the time for action; let all of us buckle down because if any emergency case is rejected, I am calling on all Nigerians.
” This fight is not only for one person; it is for all of us.”
Investigations reveal that the Child Rights Law (Child Rights Act) defines a child as anyone under 18. This legislation safeguards children’s right to life, survival, development, education, healthcare, and protection from abuse, exploitation, and discrimination. Child Rights Act (CRA), enacted in 2003, protects the rights and well-being of Nigerian children.
