LAGOS UNVEILS CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE INVESTIGATIVE PROTOCOL, CERTIFIES FORENSIC INTERVIEWERS (PHOTOS)
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By: Sefiu Ajape
The Lagos State Ministry of Justice, in partnership with the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption (RoLAC) Programme and the Cece Yara Foundation, has launched the Child Sexual Abuse Investigative and Interview Protocol, a groundbreaking initiative to strengthen child protection and ensure effective prosecution of sexual abuse cases.
The protocol, the first of its kind in Lagos, establishes a standardised, victim-focused framework for interviewing children who may have experienced sexual abuse.
It aims to minimise trauma, uphold the dignity of child victims, and ensure that statements are credible, admissible, and meet the highest investigative standards.
Speaking at the launch, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Lawal Pedro, SAN, described it as “a bold and necessary step towards ending child sexual abuse in our communities.”
He added, “Today is about giving a voice to children who have been silenced by fear and shame. This protocol ensures that every investigative step protects the child, preserves the integrity of evidence, and delivers justice swiftly and compassionately.”
He also applauded the newly certified forensic interviewers, urging them to approach their duties with professionalism, empathy, and integrity, while reaffirming the government’s commitment to sustained collaboration among police, social workers, medical practitioners, and legal officers.
RoLAC State Coordinator, Mrs. Ajibola Ijimakinwa, said the initiative is consistent with RoLAC’s mission to promote justice sector reforms and safeguard vulnerable groups.
“This protocol will ensure that child victims receive justice without further harm. Our collaboration with the Lagos State Government demonstrates what is possible when stakeholders unite with a common goal,” she stated.
In her remarks, Founder of the Cece Yara Foundation, Mrs. Bola Tinubu, stressed that lasting progress against child sexual abuse depends on consistent and collective efforts.
“Every child deserves to be heard in a safe and supportive environment. This initiative equips professionals with the tools to listen, understand, and act in the best interest of the child,” she said.
She further noted that beyond protocols and training, every individual has a role in safeguarding children.
The event featured the presentation of certificates to newly certified forensic interviewers—professionals trained to conduct sensitive child interviews in line with global best practices.
It was attended by representatives of the Judiciary, Lagos State MDAs, the Nigeria Police Force, Child Protection Services, and Civil Society Organisations.
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