‘Kids Aren’t Soldiers’: Canada Pledges Stronger Action to Protect Children Trapped in Armed Conflict.

Canada is doubling down on its promise to protect children caught in the crossfires of war. The Canadian High Commission in Nigeria recently reaffirmed its commitment to global efforts aimed at keeping kids out of armed groups and shielding them from the horrors of conflict.

The pledge came during a five day training workshop in Abuja for journalists, focused on child-centred human rights reporting and preventing the recruitment of children into armed conflict. The event was organized by the Dallaire Institute for Children, Peace and Security, in partnership with Journalists for Human Rights.

Canada’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Pasquale Salvaggio, wasn’t physically present but was represented by Omar Alihashi, the Counsellor (Political). Salvaggio’s message was clear: Canada stands firmly behind the Vancouver Principles an international framework aimed at stopping the recruitment and use of children in wars.

“Prevention, partnership, and sharing knowledge are key to building safer communities,” Salvaggio said. “This workshop reflects those values. It brings journalists and practitioners together to learn from each other and explore how responsible reporting can help protect children and support peace.”

He stressed that the media has a powerful role to play but with that power comes responsibility. Reporters must cover child protection issues with professionalism, sensitivity, and deep respect for the rights of young victims.

Offiong Nsa, a representative of the Dallaire Institute, didn’t mince words. “The use of children in armed conflict is one of the most egregious human rights violations,” she said. “Children are treated as expendable instruments of war.” She urged journalists to move beyond seeing these children only as perpetrators and instead recognize them as victims who need dignity, safety, and a voice.

Mustapha Dumbuya, Africa Programme Director for Journalists for Human Rights, noted that his organization works in over 30 countries, using media development as a tool for human rights education. “The media shapes opinions and influences behaviour,” he said. “That’s why working with journalists is a strategic way to advance human rights.”

Grace Ike, Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists FCT Council, delivered a heartfelt goodwill message. Represented by the Council’s Treasurer, Sandra Chukwugekwu, she called on journalists to report with empathy and discipline. “Avoid sensationalism. Protect the identities of child victims,” she urged. She also called for stronger teamwork between government agencies, civil society, and the media to stamp out child recruitment once and for all.