UNICEF, Bafarawa Foundation laud Gov Yusuf over welfare of 76 Kano teenagers

United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and Bafarawa Foundation have commended the efforts of Governor of Kano State, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, for rehabilitation and reuniting 76 teenagers, with their families.

The governor secured their release from court recently after months of incarceration by Federal Government for protesting against hardship and hunger in the land.

The two organisations made the commendation Thursday November 21, 2024, during the official handing over of the children to their families, two weeks after medical evaluation and reformation of the children at Muhammadu Buhari Specialists Hospital, Kano.

In a statement by Governor’s spokesperson Sanusi Bature Dawakin Tofa, UNICEF, Chief of Field Office, Mr. Michael Banda applauded commitment of the state government for prioritizing the health and welfare of the teenagers.

According to the statement, Banda said prompt action taken by the Governor Yusuf when the children were brought before court of law and care rendered at the facility affirms his child- centred policy.

Banda single out the counselling sessions organized for teenagers during their stay at the facility, in addition to successful contact trace and verification of the families as exceptional service to humanity..

The UNICEF Chief posited that his organisation in collaboration with the state ministry of Women Affairs, Children and Disabled Person will synergise efforts to facilitate the teenagers access to livelihood skills, training, formal education and justice services.

He, however, appealled for completion of Community Rehabilitation and Diversion Centres at the Muhammadu Buhari Specialists Hospital with a view to sustaining a child-friendly government.

On his part, Representative of Bafarawa Foundation, Alhaji Abdurrahman Baffa Yola, expressed gratitude to the state government for prompt rescue of the children during the unfortunate incident.

Alhaji Yola assured the state government that the foundation was ready to partner with relevant agencies to further support the released children, just as he announced the sum of N50,000 cash support for each of the teenagers to enable them solve some pressing issues.

On his part, Barr. Hamza Nuhu Dantani, a member of the legal team, urged the parents to ensure proper monitoring of their children.

He said though peaceful protest is lawful in the Constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria but should be observed with consciousness.