THE CHILD RIGHTS ACT (ENFORCEMENT PROCEDURES) RULES, 2015

Regulations establish procedures for courts to enforce child rights under the Child Rights Act, including filing applications and conducting hearings. They target family and magistrate courts, parents, guardians, children, and child welfare agencies. This ensures proceedings are child-friendly and in the best interests of the child.

What Is This Policy?

Procedural rules governing how courts enforce the rights of children under the Child Rights Act, prescribing the procedures for filing applications, conducting hearings, and implementing orders for child protection.

Who Does It Target?

Family courts and magistrate courts handling child rights matters Parents, guardians, and caregivers involved in child rights proceedings Children and their legal representatives Child welfare agencies and NGOs

What Does It Aim to Achieve?

Provide a clear, child-friendly procedural framework for enforcing child rights in court, ensuring that proceedings are expedient, private, and in the best interests of the child.

Key Features

Child-Friendly Procedures: Proceedings are conducted in private and in a manner that minimises distress to child witnesses and parties. Best Interests Standard: All procedural decisions must prioritise the best interests of the child. Representation: Children must be represented by a qualified legal or welfare professional in all proceedings. Expedited Hearings: Cases involving children must be handled with priority and concluded without unnecessary delay.

Current Status

Rollout Stage: Active Coverage: Courts of competent jurisdiction in the FCT and states that have enacted the Child Rights Act Beneficiaries: Children involved in court proceedings Funding: Federal judiciary budget

How to Access

Applications filed at the Family Court or relevant magistrate court Legal aid is available for children who cannot afford representation Applications may be filed by parents, guardians, NGOs, or the child personally where of sufficient maturity Application method: File applications at the relevant Family Court.

Important Terms

All court records involving children are sealed and not publicly accessible Violating the privacy of child proceedings is a contempt of court Courts must involve a child welfare officer in all child custody and protection proceedings

Official Resources

Website: https://www.justice.gov.ng Contact: Federal Ministry of Justice

Legal Framework

Issued under the rule-making powers of the Chief Justice of Nigeria pursuant to the Child Rights Act 2003 and the Federal High Court Act. Operates within the framework of the Child Rights Act 2003, the Administration of Criminal Justice Act 2015, and the Federal High Court (Civil Procedure) Rules. Aligns with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, and UN Guidelines on Justice in Matters involving Child Victims.