By Mercy Aikoye
Hon. Bamidele Salam, founder of Children of Africa Leadership and Values Development Initiative (CALDEV), has called for collaboration between government and stakeholders to enforce the Child Rights Act across Nigeria. Speaking in Abuja at the 5-day National Children Leadership Conference 2024, Salam emphasized that Nigeria’s problem lies not in lack of laws, but implementation.
The Child Rights Act, domesticated by over 32 states, has provisions to protect children and provide for their well-being. However, Salam questioned how many states actually implement these provisions.
He highlighted that the Act criminalizes child hawking, begging, and being out of school during school hours, with liabilities for parents and guardians. Yet, few parents are held accountable.
Salam shared CALDEV’s successes, including mentoring, empowerment, leadership education, scholarships, and advocacy for out-of-school children, children in prisons, and those without access to basic healthcare.
CALDEV partners with organizations like the National Human Rights Commission and Universal Basic Education Commission. They published books under the African Children Leadership Series, distributing 50,000 copies nationwide.
The National Children Leadership Conference has been phenomenal, providing opportunities for self-discovery, creative thinking, and problem-solving. Participants become trainers in their schools, spreading the impact.
Hon. Martins Etim, Chairman of the House Committee on Youth Development, commended CALDEV’s initiative, which helps children aged 13-17 maximize their potential.
Etim emphasized self-discovery as crucial for leadership, enabling children to realize their strengths, weaknesses, values, and beliefs.
CALDEV aims to upscale its impact, involving more children and expanding beyond Nigeria’s borders.
In 2025, CALDEV will host children from Ghana, Gambia, and Sierra Leone at its national conference.
This expansion aligns with CALDEV’s mission to empower African children.
Salam stressed that investing in children ensures a nation’s growth and development.
By focusing on leadership and values, CALDEV and its partners strive to nurture responsible, impactful citizens for Nigeria’s future.
