The Acting Chief Justice of Nigeria, Justice Olukayode Ariwoola says all court cases involving children must be speedy, child-friendly, accessible, and age-appropriate in the interest of Child Justice as enshrined in the Child’s Right Act, 2003.

Justice Ariwoola stated this in Abuja, during the maiden edition of the National Workshop on Child Protection for Family Court Judges and Stakeholders involved in Child Justice Administration.

He expressed worry over an increase in the number of children’s cases in the country, adding that Child participation and appreciation of proceedings were vital tools for quick administration of Child Justice.

Delivering a keynote address, the Administrator of the National Judicial Institute, NJI, Retired Justice Salisu Garba said the protection of children was not solely the responsibility of their parents and urged stakeholders to be abreast of processes put in place to protect children during trials.

Justice Garba condemned the exposure of children to direct physical harm and psychological abuse.

The theme of the workshop is “Achieving a Child-Friendly Justice System”.