On Tuesday, May 27, 2025, Nigeria marked Children’s Day, a nationwide observance dedicated to promoting the rights, welfare, and future of Nigerian children. This year’s theme—“Securing Our Future: Investing in Every Child”—resonated deeply across the country, especially as stakeholders raised growing concerns about insecurity, child abuse, and the lack of legal protection for millions of children.

Graylaw Practice LP Leads Legal Action on Children’s Rights in Nigeria

Among the loudest and most impactful voices was Graylaw Practice LP, a leading Nigerian law firm focused on human rights and public interest advocacy. The firm spearheaded a nationwide legal awareness campaign, offering free legal consultations and child rights education in Abuja and Lagos.

Graylaw organized community sensitization programs at local schools and public centers, where its team of lawyers educated parents, teachers, and children on the Child Rights Act, juvenile justice, and how to report abuse and seek redress. The initiative aimed to bridge the gap between policy and practice in child protection.

Demanding Government Action: From Celebration to Accountability

In a bold public statement, Graylaw Practice LP criticized the practice of celebrating Children’s Day without matching it with policy implementation. The firm called for:

• Full domestication of the Child Rights Act in all 36 states, especially where it remains unenacted.

• Greater funding for child welfare services, including child-friendly courts and secure school infrastructure.

• Fast-tracked prosecution of child abuse cases, including child labor, trafficking, and sexual violence.

• Deployment of security forces to schools vulnerable to attacks, particularly in the Northwest and Northeast regions.

Graylaw’s Managing Partner noted:

“The safety of Nigerian children is a legal obligation, not a ceremonial wish. We must stop merely talking and start enforcing the laws already in place. This is a national emergency.”

Championing Legal Protection for Every Nigerian Child

Graylaw’s intervention on Children’s Day 2025 underscores the role of legal advocacy in safeguarding child rights in Nigeria. The firm reaffirmed its commitment to promoting justice and holding institutions accountable for violations against children.

The Children’s Day celebration, marked by parades, speeches, and cultural programs, served as a moment of joy—but also a call to action. Thanks to firms like Graylaw, the message is clear: Every Nigerian child deserves safety, justice, and equal opportunity—and the law must lead the way.

On Tuesday, May 27, 2025, Nigeria joined the rest of the world to celebrate Children’s Day, a national observance dedicated to honoring the rights, welfare, and dreams of Nigerian children. The theme for this year’s celebration was “Securing Our Future: Investing in Every Child.” Across the country, state governments, schools, NGOs, and advocacy groups organized parades, symposiums, and talent showcases to recognize the role of children in nation-building and to amplify calls for greater protection and opportunity for the country’s youngest citizens.

Focus on Education, Health, and Safety

As part of the 2025 Children’s Day celebration, governments at both federal and state levels reaffirmed commitments to improving basic education, healthcare, and child protection laws. In Abuja, the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs held a National Children’s Summit, bringing together child rights advocates, policy-makers, and students to discuss access to quality education, ending child labor, and combating child trafficking.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a special broadcast, emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), enhance school feeding programs, and implement digital learning initiatives to reduce the learning gap, particularly in rural areas.

Parades, Awards, and Cultural Showcases

Colorful children’s parades were held in major cities including Lagos, Port Harcourt, Kano, and Enugu. Schoolchildren marched in vibrant uniforms, participated in debates, drama, and musical presentations focused on themes of unity, peace, and civic responsibility.

Several children received awards for excellence in academics, arts, and innovation. In Lagos, a 12-year-old girl was celebrated for developing a mobile app designed to help students learn mathematics through interactive games.

Concerns Over Child Abuse and Insecurity

Despite the festive mood, civil society groups highlighted serious concerns regarding the safety and rights of children in conflict-prone areas. In the Northeast and Northwest regions, insecurity and school kidnappings have disrupted education and traumatized children. NGOs called on the government to prioritize security in school environments and to implement psychological support programs for affected children.

Graylaw’s Contribution

Legal advocacy firm Graylaw Practice LP marked the day by offering free legal aid and awareness sessions on child rights and juvenile justice. Partnering with local schools and community centers in Abuja and Lagos, Graylaw lawyers educated parents, teachers, and children on the Child Rights Act, child abuse prevention, and how to seek redress for violations. The firm emphasized the need for more proactive enforcement of laws protecting children and called for the domestication of the Child Rights Act in all 36 states.

A Day of Hope and Responsibility

As Nigeria grapples with economic and social challenges, Children’s Day 2025 was a poignant reminder of the urgent need to invest in young Nigerians. Leaders, educators, and families were reminded that the strength of the nation lies in the well-being, education, and safety of its children. The day ended with a unified message: a brighter Nigeria begins with empowered children today.

As Nigeria marked Democracy Day on June 12, 2025, Graylaw Practice LP stood as a prominent legal voice, reaffirming its commitment to democratic governance, the rule of law, and constitutional rights. Aligned with its organizational ethos—“Defending Justice, Strengthening Institutions”—Graylaw utilized the occasion to amplify its advocacy for legal reforms, human rights, and accountable leadership.

1. Public Legal Education and Awareness

In commemoration of Democracy Day, Graylaw hosted a virtual legal symposium titled “Democracy and the Law: 32 Years After June 12”, which featured lawyers, civil society leaders, and youth advocates. The firm led discussions on:

• The legality and implications of the now-withdrawn Compulsory Voting Bill;

• Electoral justice and the role of the judiciary in sustaining democracy;

• Strategies for increasing youth and women participation in governance.

This effort mirrors Graylaw’s broader mission to educate the public on civic responsibilities and legal rights, ensuring that democracy is not only celebrated, but understood and defended.

2. Legal Commentary and Policy Advocacy

Senior partners at Graylaw issued a public position paper that critically analyzed the controversial compulsory voting bill, warning that compelling civic participation through punitive legislation would undermine fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution. The firm’s voice contributed significantly to public pressure that led to the bill’s withdrawal.

Graylaw further called for:

• Stronger legal frameworks for electoral accountability,

• Safeguards against voter suppression,

• Transparent governance free from executive overreach.

3. Pro Bono Support for Victims of Democratic Violations

As part of its Democracy Justice Fund, Graylaw offered pro bono legal representation to citizens facing unlawful detention, political intimidation, or rights violations tied to civic protests. This direct action reinforced the principle that a functioning democracy must protect dissent and respect the rule of law.

4. Empowering Future Defenders of Democracy

Recognizing the importance of youth in democracy’s future, Graylaw launched its 2025 Democracy Legal Fellowship, offering internships to law students focused on human rights litigation, constitutional law, and public interest advocacy.

Conclusion

In marking Democracy Day 2025, Graylaw Practice LP was not merely an observer, but an active defender of Nigeria’s democratic journey. Through public education, legal advocacy, and community service, Graylaw embodied the spirit of June 12—championing justice, defending liberties, and ensuring that democracy remains a lived experience, not just a national memory.

GrayLaw has dedicated over 15 years to understanding and addressing the complexities of divorce, particularly its legal, emotional, and financial implications. By analyzing family law principles, case precedents, and societal impacts, GrayLaw has developed strategic solutions that effectively handle contested custody battles, financial instability, and emotional distress in families undergoing divorce.

Legal Representation in Divorce Cases GrayLaw plays a crucial role in representing clients during divorce proceedings, ensuring the protection of their rights, assets, and interests. The firm provides expert legal counsel on the grounds for divorce and legal procedures, ensuring fair asset division and equitable financial settlements. Furthermore, it advocates for just spousal support arrangements to secure the financial well-being of individuals post-divorce.

Mediation and Conflict Resolution To reduce the emotional and financial burdens of lengthy court battles, GrayLaw promotes mediation and alternative dispute resolution (ADR). By encouraging amicable settlements, the firm helps spouses reach mutually beneficial agreements without unnecessary litigation. It also encourages peaceful co-parenting arrangements, prioritizing the emotional well-being of children and minimizing hostility through structured dialogue and negotiation.

Child Custody and Welfare Advocacy Children’s welfare remains at the core of GrayLaw’s family law practice. The firm fights for child custody rights based on the child’s best interests, ensuring that fair child support agreements are in place to provide financial stability. Additionally, GrayLaw advocates for co-parenting plans that offer emotional security and consistency for children affected by divorce.

Pre-Marital and Post-Marital Legal Services To prevent future disputes, GrayLaw offers legal advisory services on marriage contracts, including prenuptial and postnuptial agreements that clearly define asset ownership. By advising couples on financial and legal obligations before and after marriage, the firm helps establish clarity and security in marital relationships.

Psychological and Emotional Support Services Recognizing that divorce is both a legal and emotional journey, GrayLaw collaborates with counselors, therapists, and support groups to offer essential emotional support. These services include emotional guidance for individuals navigating separation, counseling for children adjusting to new family dynamics, and post-divorce adjustment programs for single parents and newly separated individuals.

Community Education and Awareness Initiatives GrayLaw extends its impact beyond legal representation by actively engaging in legal education and advocacy. The firm organizes seminars and workshops on family law, marriage rights, and conflict resolution. Additionally, it conducts awareness campaigns on the effects of divorce and strategies to strengthen family relationships. Through community outreach programs, GrayLaw also provides free legal advice to individuals in need.

Supporting Single Parents and Post-Divorce Transitions GrayLaw remains committed to ensuring a smooth transition for clients post-divorce. The firm assists single parents in legal and financial adjustments following separation and offers legal guidance on co-parenting and visitation rights. Furthermore, GrayLaw helps divorced individuals understand their employment, housing, and financial rights, empowering them to rebuild their lives with confidence.

GrayLaw plays a pivotal role in protecting family rights, resolving disputes, and advocating for children’s welfare in divorce cases. Through its legal expertise, mediation services, and community support initiatives, GrayLaw continues to be a pillar of justice, ensuring that families receive comprehensive legal and emotional support during and after divorce.

GrayLaw provides expert legal representation, mediation, and emotional support to ensure fair and peaceful resolutions.

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In Nigeria, the lack of legal knowledge continues to be a major obstacle to fairness and sound governance. Pro bono legal services, digital access to legal materials, legal education, streamlined legal communication, and collaborations with academic institutions are some of the proactive measures GrayLaw is taking to solve this problem. GrayLaw helps to build a just and equitable Nigeria by promoting a society that is aware of the law.

Any society needs legal knowledge to function because it guarantees that people, organizations, and governmental bodies are aware of their legal rights, responsibilities, and constraints. However, the general public’s awareness of the law in Nigeria is still quite low. Access to justice, the upholding of rights, and the general efficacy of the legal system are all impacted by this issue.

Lack of Legal Knowledge

The overall lack of legal awareness among the public is one of the main issues. The 1999 Constitution’s core rights are not well understood by many Nigerians. In rural communities with little access to legal education and awareness campaigns, this ignorance is more common. As a result, many people are subjected to unfair labor practices, human rights violations, and wrongful detentions without ever seeking compensation.

The intricacy of legal terminology

Nigerian legal documents frequently contain sophisticated, complicated terminology that is hard for the average individual to understand. Latin expressions and antiquated terms that are difficult for laypeople to understand are commonly used by legal professionals. People are unable to comprehend and take advantage of legal provisions because of their intricacy, which puts a barrier between the law and them.

Inadequate Civic Education

Foundational civic and legal education is not given priority in the Nigerian educational system. Many elementary and secondary school pupils do not learn fundamental legal concepts like contract law, constitutional rights, or dispute resolution procedures. People who aren’t exposed to legal knowledge at a young age have a limited understanding of how the legal system functions, which causes them to rely on informal justice systems and propagate false information.

Restricted Legal Resource Access

Another major obstacle is access to legal resources like statutes, case laws, and legal textbooks. Ordinary citizens’ capacity to educate themselves on their legal rights is restricted by the high cost and low availability of legal literature. Additionally, Nigeria’s digital divide limits access to online legal materials, making it challenging for those living in rural areas to keep up with legal changes.

Corruption and Mistrust of the Legal System

Many Nigerians are deterred from using the legal system because they believe it to be corrupt. Many Nigerians lack faith in the legal system because they think that justice is only for the powerful and wealthy. People frequently look to traditional or religious leaders as alternative dispute resolution methods as a result of this mistrust, which may not always be in line with constitutional ideals.

Initiatives to Advance Legal Understanding

To raise legal awareness in Nigeria, a number of efforts have been started. To educate the public on their rights, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) and other non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have launched legal aid and education initiatives. In order to educate the public, media channels such as radio and television programs have also begun to broadcast legal discussions.

GrayLaw’s Contributions

Through a number of projects, GrayLaw is actively striving to close the legal knowledge gap in Nigeria.

Legal Education and Awareness Campaigns: To inform Nigerians of their rights and responsibilities under the law, GrayLaw hosts webinars, seminars, and workshops. To guarantee broad legal awareness, these initiatives focus on professionals, students, and underserved groups.

Legal Terminology Simplification: GrayLaw is attempting to reduce complicated legal jargon to plain, understandable language. This involves creating materials and legal aids in plain English to assist regular people in better navigating the legal system.

Digital Legal Access: In light of the digital divide, GrayLaw is creating a platform of online legal resources that will make Nigerian laws, case studies, and legal interpretations freely accessible. This will keep people, companies, and attorneys aware of their rights and responsibilities.

Legal Aid and Pro Bono Services: GrayLaw works with attorneys to provide clients who cannot afford legal representation with free or heavily discounted legal aid. This guarantees that those who are vulnerable get the justice they are due.

Collaborations with Academic Institutions: GrayLaw is collaborating with academic institutions to incorporate legal studies into their curricula. GrayLaw wants to raise a generation that is cognizant of the law by introducing legal education early on.

Media Engagement for the Public: GrayLaw is using social media, radio, and television to spread legal information. Public participation and practical clarification of legal concepts are facilitated by interactive programs, Q&A sessions, and case studies.

The Network of Civil Society Organizations Against Child Trafficking, Abuse, and Labour (NACTAL) Nigeria convened its General Meeting on Thursday, 20th March 2025, at the NACTAL National Office in Garki, Abuja. The meeting brought together key stakeholders committed to the fight against child trafficking, abuse, and labour. Among the attendees were Mr. Temitope from the Centre for Family Health Initiative, Vera (NACTAL’s National Secretary), a senior member fondly called “Mummy,” , Uchenna Mojekwu from Global Integrity Crusade Network (GICN), and many other important personnel

Key Highlights from the Meeting Virtual Address by the National President

Mr. AbdulGaniyu A. Abubakar, the National President of NACTAL Nigeria, joined the meeting virtually. He welcomed all members and commended their dedication to the organization’s mission. In a show of goodwill, he also ensured refreshments were provided for the attendees.

Preparations for the World Day Against Child Labour (June 2025)

The organization is actively preparing for the annual World Day Against Child Labour, which is scheduled for June 2025. While the exact date is yet to be announced, discussions emphasized the importance of planning impactful activities to raise awareness and promote child protection efforts.

Establishment of a Child Protection Committee (CPC)

James IKAPE from MeCAHT highlighted the urgent need for a Child Protection Committee (CPC) in vulnerable communities. He called for increased collaboration among stakeholders to enhance child protection initiatives and ensure sustainable interventions.

Debate: Discipline vs. Child Abuse

A recent case of severe child torture over a stolen ₦4,000 sparked a debate on the fine line between discipline and abuse. Vera underscored that discipline should never escalate into abuse. “Mummy” proposed a structured corporal punishment system based on age as follows:

3-6 years: 3 strokes of the cane 6 years: 4 strokes of the cane 8 years: 5 strokes of the cane 18+ years: No corporal punishment

A rhetorical question was raised during the discussion: Who determines the size of the cane? This question highlighted the complexities surrounding corporal punishment and the need for clear, standardized guidelines to prevent abuse.

GICN’s Involvement in Child Protection Efforts

Uchenna Mojekwu, representing GICN, actively participated in the discussions, bringing valuable legal perspectives to the conversation on child rights. GICN emphasized the importance of a legal framework in addressing child abuse cases, advocating for stricter enforcement of child protection laws. The organization pledged support for NACTAL’s initiatives and offered legal guidance in cases involving child trafficking and abuse.

GICN also highlighted the significance of engaging law enforcement agencies and policymakers to ensure accountability and justice for victims. The firm reaffirmed its commitment to working with NACTAL to strengthen child protection laws and provide pro bono legal services to affected children and families.

Addressing Member Commitment Concerns

Concerns were raised regarding the declining commitment of some members. It was agreed that this issue would be addressed in future meetings to ensure sustained engagement and effectiveness in NACTAL’s activities.

Reinforcing NACTAL’s Commitment

The meeting reaffirmed NACTAL’s dedication to combating child trafficking, abuse, and labour through continuous advocacy, collaboration, and proactive measures. Notable attendees included Eunice from the Female Drivers Association, along with Temitope and James IKAPE, who actively contributed to the discussions.

NACTAL remains steadfast in its mission to protect vulnerable children and create a safer society. The organization looks forward to the upcoming World Day Against Child Labour and further strategic actions to promote child rights and welfare in Nigeria.