COAS Leads Review and Endorsement of Handover Protocol Implementation Plan with UNICEF
COAS Leads Review and Endorsement of Handover Protocol Implementation Plan with UNICEF
COAS Leads Review and Endorsement of Handover Protocol Implementation Plan with UNICEF
In a major step towards child protection, Lieutenant General TA Lagbaja, Chief of Army Staff (COAS), co-convened a crucial meeting on January 25, 2024, at the NARC to review and endorse the Handover Protocol Implementation Plan with UNICEF.
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The meeting aimed at finalising the implementation plan for the Handover Protocol concerning Children Encountered in Armed Conflict in Nigeria and the Lake Chad Basin Region.
The National Security Adviser, represented by Rear Admiral Yaminu Ehinomen Musa (Rtd), emphasised that the agreement to establish the Handover Protocol was signed on September 30, 2022, between the government of Nigeria, the United Nations, and UNICEF. Under this agreement, a comprehensive operational plan is being developed to facilitate the quick identification and transfer of children allegedly associated with armed groups to the Ministry of Women Affairs within a 7-day period.
COAS, represented by Maj Gen Nosakhare Ugbo, highlighted Nigeria’s notable achievement in implementing the Handover Protocol, making it one of the few countries globally to prioritize child protection in armed conflict situations. He underscored the protocol’s significance in providing a secure pathway for children to leave armed groups and receive essential support.
COAS also reiterated the Nigerian Army’s commitment to the protocol, as well as adherence to the code of conduct and rules of engagement in alignment with international laws.
The highlight of the event was the official signing of the Handover Protocol Implementation by key stakeholders, including the Nigerian Army, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Nigeria, UNICEF, and representatives from various ministries such as Defence, Foreign Affairs, Justice, Women Affairs, and Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.
Distinguished attendees included the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, Mrs Uju Kennedy-Ohanenye, UNICEF Representative Mrs Cristian Munduate, Charge d’Affaires ad Interim of the United States Mr David Greene, Ambassador of Norway Mr Svein Baera, UNICEF Chief Child Protection Mr Ibrahim Sasay, and representatives from the Theatre Command Op HADIN KAI.
This collaborative effort marks a crucial stride towards enhancing the protection and well-being of children affected by armed conflict.
COAS Leads Review and Endorsement of Handover Protocol Implementation Plan with UNICEF
