UNICEF Supports Lagos Police Anti-Violence Campaign

Pat Steven/

Several items were today donated by the United Nations International Children Emergency Funds (UNICEF) to aid the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) in its campaign against violence in Nigerian children.

According to UNICEF, NPF has been in the forefront of the campaign.

UNICEF donated electrical appliances and other office equipment to the Lagos State Police Command and the office of the Public Defender to support Gender Juvenile welfare units in the state.

Speaking with reporters at the event, Mrs Rocio Aznar, Child Protection Specialist who represented UNICEF while presenting the items commended the Lagos State Police Command for being in the forefront of the campaign against violence in children.

Rocio stressed the need why the campaign against violence in children should be a continuous exercise because every 1 in 4 girls and 1 in 6 boys suffers domestic violence globally.

She said, “We appreciate the commitment of the police and their support for the victims of violence. We have observed its high prevalence and in the forefront of the campaigner to stop this is the Lagos State Police Command.

“This prompted our support with some equipment as we appreciate the campaign. People with minor offences should, however, be taken to juveniles centers instead of being mixed up with hardened criminals.

“We are here to support the Government of Nigeria and urge other MDAs to provide more support in managing victims of violence.”

The acting Commissioner of Police in Lagos, Mr Imohimi Edgal, who was represented by DCP Bolaji Salami of the State Criminal Intelligence and Investigations Department (SCIID) appealed to the UNICEF Child Protection Center to give more supports for Gender Juvenile welfare.

He further appreciated the gesture by UNICEF and assured the representatives that the equipment will be adequately utilized.

He added, “We appreciate your gesture towards the welfare of juvenile and we assure you that the items will be used for its purpose.

“In line with taking care of juveniles, we need a center where the children can stay for a while before being taken down to special homes. Once again we appreciate your support and commitment towards the welfare of the vulnerable.”

0