Overview

OVERVIEW OF THE CHILD DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
Child welfare services is firmly rooted in the various cultures of our people that the welfare of the child is bound up inextricably with that of his parents, his family and kinship group to which he belongs, and the wider community in which he lives and grows.

The child welfare services includes investigations of child maltreatment, protective living arrangements for children, counseling, financial assistance, foster care and adoption programs. Child welfare services also responds to cases of child abuse and neglect; removing children from home settings that are dangerous or do not meet certain standards; working with children and their families on a reunification plan in line with the Child Rights Act.

Child Development Department of the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs was established as the national mechanism to handle all matters relating to the total wellbeing and development of the Nigerian child. It is to give visibility to children, coordinate activities, monitor progress and promote a comprehensive and integrated agenda for the realization of children’s rights.

Our Vision

A Nigeria where every child is protected, empowered, and given the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Key Functions

  • Policy development and review
  • Protection from abuse and exploitation
  • Support for vulnerable children
  • Advocacy and awareness campaigns
  • Coordination of child care institutions
  • Capacity building for social workers
  • Data management and reporting

Our Mandate

The Child Development Department is charged with the responsibility of handling all matters relating to the total well-being and development of the Nigerian child between ages 0 – 18 years. It provides an enabling environment that will ensure the holistic development of the potentials of the Nigerian child through well-articulated policies, projects and programmes that would enhance the quality of his/her life and enable him/her contribute meaningfully towards national development.

  • Coordinate policies, programs, and projects for child welfare
  • Promote the holistic development of children (ages 0–18)