CHILDSRIGHTACT

ARRANGEMENTOFSECTIONS
PARTI
BestInterestofaChildtobeofParamountConsiderationinallActions.
SECTION
1. BestinterestofaChildtobeofparamountconsiderationinallactions.
2. Achildtobegivenprotectionandcarenecessaryforhiswellbeing.
PARTII
RightsandResponsibilitiesofaChild
RightsofaChild
3. ApplicationofChapterIVof1999Constitution,etc.
4. Righttosurvivalanddevelopment.
5. Righttoname.
6. Freedomofassociationandpeacefulassembly.
7. Freedomofthought,conscienceandreligion.
8. Righttoprivateandfamilylife.
9. Righttofreedomofmovement.
10. Righttofreedomfromdiscrimination.
11. Righttodignityofthechild.
12. Righttoleisure,recreationandculturalactivities.
13. Righttohealthandhealthservices.
14. Righttoparentalcare,protectionandmaintenance.
15. Rightofachildtofree,compulsoryanduniversalprimaryeducation,etc.
16. Rightofachildinneedofspecialprotectionmeasure.
17. Rightoftheunbornchildtoprotectionagainstharm,etc.
18. Contractualrightsofachild.
19. Responsibilitiesofachildandparent.
20. Parent,etc.toprovideguidancewithrespecttochildsresponsibilities.
PARTIII
ProtectionoftheRightsofaChild
21. Prohibitionofchildmarriage.
22. Prohibitionofchildbetrothal.
23. Punishmentforchildmarriageandbetrothal.
24. Tattoosandskinmarks.
25. Exposuretouse,productionandtraffickingofnarcoticdrugs,etc.
UseofChildreninOtherCriminalActivities
26. Useofchildreninothercriminalactivities.
27. Abduction,removalandtransferfromlawfulcustody.
ChildLabour
28. Prohibitionofexploitativelabour.
29. ApplicationofLabourAct.
Buying,Selling,etc.,forthePurposeofBeggingandProstitution,etc.
30. Prohibitionofbuying,selling,hiringorotherwisedealinginchildrenforthepurposeofhawking
orbeggingforalmsorprostitution,etc.
UnlawfulSexualIntercourse,etc.
31. Unlawfulsexualintercoursewithachild,etc.
OtherFormsofSexualAbuseandExploitation
32. Formsofsexualabuseandexploitation.
OtherFormsofExploitation
33. Otherformsofexploitation.
RecruitmentintotheArmedForces
34. ProhibitionofrecruitmentofchildrenintotheArmedForces.
HarmfulPublication
35. Prohibitionofimportationofharmfulpublication.
36. Penaltyforharmfulpublication.
37. Powertoissuewarrantofarrest,summons,search,etc.,forharmfulpublications.
38. PowerofCourttoorderforfeiture,etc.
Miscellaneous
39. Removalofjurisdictionallimitationofmagistrates,etc.
40. ApplicationofCriminalLawprovisions.
PARTIV
ProtectionofChildren
41. Childassessmentorders.
42. Emergencyprotectionorders.
43. Durationofemergencyprotectionorders,etc.
44. Childrentakenintopoliceprotectionincasesofemergency.
45. DutyofaStateGovernmenttoinvestigate.
46. Disclosureofwhereabouts,etc.ofchildrenwhomaybeinneedofemergencyprotection.
47. Abductionofchildrenincare,etc.
48. Refugeforchildrenatrisk.
49. RulesandregulationsunderthisPart.
PARTV
ChildreninNeedofCareandProtection
50. Powerofcertainpersonstobringchildreninneedtocareandprotectionbeforeacourtin
certaincases.
51. Makeorderwhereparentorguardianisunabletoexercisecontrol.
52. PowerofCourttoorderparent,etc.,tocontributetomaintenance.
PARTVI
CareandSupervision
53. Careandsupervisionorder,general.
54. PeriodwithinwhichapplicationfororderunderthisPartmustbedisposedof.
55. Effectofcareorder.
56. Parentalcontacts,etc.,withchildrenincare.
57. Dutyofsupervisorswhilesupervisionordersareinforce.
58. Educationsupervisionorders.
59. PowerofCourtinproceedingswherequestionofwelfareofchildarises.
60. Interimorders.
61. Dischargeandvariation,etc.,ofcareordersandsupervisionorders.
62. Orderspendingappealsincasesrelatingtocareorsupervisionorders.
PARTVII
ProvisionsforuseofScientificTestsinDeterminingPaternityorMaternity,etc.
63. PowerofCourttorequireuseofscientifictests.
64. Consents,etc.,requiredfortakingscientificsamples.
65. PowerofMinistertoprovideformannerofgivingeffecttodirectionsforuseofscientifictests.
66. Failuretocomplywithdirectionsfortakingofscientifictests.
67. Penaltyforimpersonatinganother,etc.,forpurposeofprovidingscientificsample.
PARTVIII
PossessionandCustodyofChildren
68. Acquisitionofparentalresponsibilities.
69. PoweroftheCourttomakeorderinrespecttocustodyorrightsofaccesstoachild.
70. Ordersastocustody.
71. Validityofcustodyagreedtoinseparationdeeds.
72. Principalonwhichquestionsrelatingtocustody,upbringing,etc.,ofchildistobedecided.
73. Courttohaveregardtoconductofparent.
74. PowerofCourtastoproductionofchild.
75. PowerofCourttoconsultchildswishes.
76. PowerofCourttochildsreligiouseducation.
77. Enforcementoforderforpaymentofmoneybyattachmentofincome.
78. Noticeofchangeofaddressbypersonorderedtopaymoney.
79. PoweroftheMinistertomakeorders,etc.,astocustodyofchildren.
80. Prohibitionagainstacquiringcustody,etc.,ofchildforthepurposeofdealinginthechild.
81. Penaltiesforcontraveningsections79and80.
PARTIX
Guardianship
82. Parentalresponsibilityofaguardian.
83. Guardianshipofachild.
84. Orderforguardianshipofachild.
85. Consentofapersonappointedasaguardian.
86. Revocationofguardianship.
87. Powerofaguardianoverestateofachild.
88. Disputesbetweenjointguardians.
89. Appointmentofguardianadlitem.
90. Establishmentofpanelsofpersonsfromwhichguardiansadlitemmaybe
appointed.
91. Rightofguardianadlitemtohaveaccesstorecords.
92. SavingofexistingordersandjurisdictionoftheCourt.
PARTV
Wardship
93. JurisdictionofCourt.
94. Wardshiporder.
95. MaintenanceofawardofCourt.
96. Committalofwardtocareofappropriateauthority,etc.
97. Matrimonialcauses.
98. Dismissalofapplicationforwardship.
99. Rulesforapplicationforwardship.
PARTXI
Fostering
100. Applicationforfostering.
101. Achildtobefostered.
102. Makingafosteringorder.
103. Limitonnumberofchildrenwhomaybefostered.
104. Restrictiononthemakingoffosteringorder.
105. Consenttofostering.
106. Furtherconditionsformakingoffosteringorders.
107. InterimOrders.
108. RulesofCourt.
109. Appeal.
110. Rightsanddutiesoffosterparentsandotherpersons.
111. Effectoffosteringonmaintenanceorder.
112. FosteredChildrenRegister.
113. Visittofosteredchildbychilddevelopmentofficers.
114. Revocationofafosterorderongroundsoftheinterestofthechild.
115. Prohibitionofreceivingmoneyorrewardasinducementtofosterachild.
116. Prohibitionoftaking,sendingfosteredchildoutofstateorNigeria.
117. Prohibitionofwithdrawalofachildfromthecareoftheapplicant.
118. Fosterparentprohibitedfrommarryingfosteredchild.
119. Noncompliancewithlawfuldirectives.
120. Privatearrangementforfosteringchildren.
121. Welfareofachildfosteredprivately.
122. Apersondisqualifiedfromfosteringachildprivately.
123. PowerofStateGovernmenttoprohibitprivatefostering.
124. OffencesunderthisPart.
PARTXII
Adoption
125. Establishmentofadoptionservices,etc.
126. Applicationforadoption,etc.
127. Religiousupbringingofadoptedchild.
128. Personswhomaybeadopted.
129. Personswhomayadopt.
130. Powertomakeadoptionorder.
131. Restrictionsonthemakingofadoptionorders.
132. Requiredconsent.
133. Conditionspreceedingthemakingofadoptionorder.
134. Powerofcourttoimposetermsandconditions.
135. Interimorders,pendingadoptionorders.
136. JurisdictionoftheCourt.
137. RulesoftheCourtforadoptionofachild.
138. Appeals.
139. Adoptionwhencorrectiveorderisinforce.
140. Adoptionwheremaintenanceorderisinforce.
141. Effectofadoption.
142. EstablishmentoftheAdoptedChildrenRegister.
143. Prohibitionofcertainpaymentsforadoption.
144. RestrictiononinterStateadoption.
145. LicencetogivechildforinterStateadoption.
146. Recognitionofotheradoption.
147. Adoptedparents,etc.,prohibitedfrommarryingadoptedchild.
148. Visitofadoptedchilddevelopmentofficers.
149. EstablishmentoftheFamilyCourt.
150. Courttohavetwolevels.
151. Generaljurisdiction.
152. FamilyCourtattheHighCourtlevel.
153. FamilyCourtattheMagistrateCourtlevel.
154. ProfessionalisationandtrainingofCourtpersonnel.
155. Righttocounsel,etc.
156. Exclusionofpersonsfromattendingcourt.
157. Prohibitionofpublicationofchildsname,etc.
158. Proceedingstobeintheinterestofthechild.
159. Attendanceofparents,guardiansorchildatthehearingintheCourt.
160. Evidencegivingbyachild.
161. Rulesforprocedures,fees,etc.
162. Exclusivejurisdiction.
PARTXIV
ChildMindingandDayCareofYoungChildren
163. Registration,etc.,ofchildmindinganddaycarecentre.
164. Conditionstobecompliedwithbychildminders.
165. Conditionstobecompliedwithbypersonsprovidingdaycareforchildren.
166. Cancellationofregistrationofachildminder
167. Protectionofchildren,emergencycasesofcancellationofregistration,etc.
168. PowersoftheStateGovernmenttoinspectpremises,etc.
169. StateGovernmenttogiveapplicantnoticeofactionitintendstotake.
170. OffencesunderthisPart.
PARTXV
StateGovernmentSupportforChildrenandFamilies
171. Provisionofservicesforchildreninneed,etc.
172. Daycareforpreschoolchildren.
173. Reviewofprovisionfordaycare,childrenminding,etc.
174. Provisionofaccommodationforchildreningeneral.
175. Provisionofaccommodationforchildreninpoliceprotectiondetentionorremand,etc.
176. ReferencetochildlookedafterbyStateGovernment.
177. DutyofStateGovernmenttoprovideforthewelfareofchildrenlookedafterbyit.
178. ProvisionofaccommodationandmaintenancebyStateGovernmentforchildrenlookedafterby
it.
179. Adviceandassistanceforcertainchildren,etc.
180. Useofaccommodationforrestrictingliberty.
181. Reviewofcasesandinquiriesintorepresentatives.
182. Cooperationbetweenauthorities.
183. Consultationwiththeeducationauthorities.
184. Recoupmentofcostofprovidingservices,etc.
185. Miscellaneous.
PARTXVI
CommunityHomes
186. Securingcommunityhomes.
187. DirectivesbyMinistertodiscontinuetheuseofpremisesascommunityhomes.
188. Determinationofdisputesrelatingtocontrolledandassistedcommunityhomes.
189. Discontinuanceofcontrolledorassistedcommunityhomes.
190. ClosurebyStateGovernmentofcontrolledorassistedcommunityhomes.
PARTXVII
VoluntaryHomesandVoluntaryOrganisations
191. Provisionofaccommodationbyvoluntaryorganisations.
192. Registrationandregulationofvoluntaryhomes.
193. Dutiesofvoluntaryorganisations.
194. DutiesoftheStateGovernment.
PARTXVIII
RegisteredChildrensHomes
195. Registration,etc.,ofchildrenshomes.
196. Welfare,etc.,ofchildreninhomes.
197. Personsdisqualifiedfrommanaging,orbeingemployedinchildrenshomes.
PARTXIX
SupervisoryFunctionsandResponsibilitiesoftheMinister
198. Inspectionofchildrenshome,etc.,byauthorisedpersons.
199. Inquiries.
200. Ministermaydirectinquiriestobeheldincamera.
201. FinancialsupportbyMinister.
202. Researchandreturnsofinformation.
203. PowerofMinistertodeclareStateGovernment,etc.,tobedefault.
PARTXX
ChildJusticeAdministration
General
204. Childtobesubjectedtoonlychildjusticesystemandprocesses.
205. Protectionofprivacy.
206. Professionaleducationandtraining.
207. SpecialisationwithintheNigeriaPoliceForce.
208. Useofdirection.
209. Disposalofcasewithoutresorttoformaltrial.
210. Reportofthelegalstatusandrightsofthechild.
Investigation
211. Initialcontactwiththechild.
212. Detentionpendingtrial.
Adjudication
213. JurisdictionofCourttotrychildoffenders.
214. Rightstofairhearingandcompliancewithdueprocess.
215. Guidingprinciplesinadjudication.
216. Parents,guardianstoattendCourt.
217. ChildjusticeprocedureinCourt.
218. RemandsandcommittalstoStateGovernmentaccommodation.
219. Socialinquiryreport.
220. PowerofCourttoorderparentorguardiantopayfine,etc.
221. Restrictiononpunishment.
222. Detentionincaseofcertaincrimes.
223. Methodsofdealingwithchildoffender.
224. Governmenttoprovideaccommodation.
225. Procedureonfailuretoobserveconditionofrecognisance.
226. Bindingoverofaparentorguardian.
227. Formsforcorrectiveorders.
228. Operationofcorrectiveordermaybesuspended.
229. Powertovarycorrectiveorderincertaincases.
230. Powerofmanagerofanapprovedinstitutiontograntleaveofabsencetoachildindetention.
231. Apprehensionwithoutwarrant.
232. Procedureincaseofunrulyordepravedperson.
NonInstitutionalTreatment
233. Effectiveimplementationofnoninstitutionalorders.
234. Assistanceduringrehabilitation.
235. Mobilisationofvoluntaryservice.
InstitutionalTreatment
236. Objectiveofinstitutionaltreatment.
237. Recourseofconditionalrelease.
Research,Planning,PolicyFormulationandEvaluation
238. Researchasabasisforplanning,policyformulation,etc.
PARTXXI
Supervision
239. Appointmentofsupervisionofficer.
240. Supervisioninspectorsandsupervisioninspectionservice.
241. Defaultpowerwherethesupervisionservicefailstodischargeitsstatutoryduty.
242. PowerofCourttomakeconditionaldischargeorderandsupervisionorder.
243. Personnamedinsupervisionorder.
244. Supervisionofficermayberelievedofduties.
245. Dutiesofsupervisionofficer.
246. PowerofCourttovarysuspensionorder.
PARTXXII
ApprovedInstitutionsandPostReleaseSupervision
247. Approvedinstitutions.
248. Establishmentofapprovedinstitutions.
249. Declarationofbuilding,etc.,asanapprovedinstitution.
250. Childrenattendancecentres,etc.
251. Responsibilitiesforapprovedinstitutions.
252. Officersofapprovedinstitutions.
253. Visitorsandvisitingcommittees.
254. Appointmentofvoluntaryvisitors.
255. Facilitiesforobservationofchildreninapprovedinstitutions.
256. TransferfromChildrenCorrectionalCentretoSpecialChildrenCentre.
257. Releasefromapprovedinstitutions,etc.
ReleaseandPostReleasesupervision
258. ReleaseandsupervisionaftertrainingattheChildrenCentre.
259. Postreleasesupervisionofchildrenoffenders.
PARTXXIII
TheNational,StateandLocalGovernmentChildRightsImplementationCommittees
NationalChildRightsImplementationCommittee
260. EstablishmentandmembershipoftheNationalChildRightsImplementationCommittee.
261. FunctionsofNationalCommittee.
262. Procedure,etc.,atmeetings.
263. SecretariatoftheNationalCommittee.
StateChildRightsImplementationCommittee
264. EstablishmentandmembershipofStateChildRightsImplementationCommittee.
265. FunctionsoftheStateCommittee.
266. Procedureatmeetings.
267. SecretariatoftheStateCommittee.
LocalGovernmentChildRightsImplementationCommittee
268. EstablishmentandmembershipoftheLocalGovernmentChildRightsImplementation
Committee.
269. FunctionsoftheLocalGovernmentCommittee.
270. Procedure,etc.,atmeetings.
271. SecretariatoftheLocalGovernmentCommittee.
PARTXXIV
Miscellaneous
272. Offencesbybodiescorporate.
273. Serviceofdocuments.
274. Suspensionandinconsistency.
275. DelegationofpowersbytheMinister.
276. FormsintheEleventhSchedule.
277. Interpretation.
278. Citation.

SCHEDULES
FIRSTSCHEDULE
FinancialProvisionforChildren
SECONDSCHEDULE
SupervisionOrders
THIRDSCHEDULE
ApplicationforWardship
FOURTHSCHEDULE
FosterParents:LimitsonNumberofFosterChildren
FIFTHSCHEDULE
FormofAdoptedChildrensRegister
SIXTHSCHEDULE
ChildMindingandDayCareforYoungChildren
SEVENTHSCHEDULE
StateGovernmentSupportforChildrenandFamilies
EIGHTSCHEDULE
ManagementandConductofCommunityHomes
NINTHSCHEDULE
VoluntaryHomesandVoluntaryOrganisations
TENTHSCHEDULE
RegisteredChildrensHomes
ELEVENTHSCHEDULE
FormsinrelationtoPartsVI,XXandXXIofthisAct
_________________________
CHILDSRIGHTSACT2003
AnActtoprovideandprotecttherightsofaNigerianchild;andotherrelatedmatters.
[31stJuly,2003]
[Commencement.]
PARTI
BestInterestofaChildtobeofParamountConsiderationinallActions
1. BestinterestofaChildtobeofparamountconsiderationinallactions
Ineveryactionconcerningachild,whetherundertakenbyanindividual,publicorprivatebody,
institutionsorservice,courtoflaw,oradministrativeorlegislativeauthority,thebestinterestofthe
childshallbetheprimaryconsideration.
2. Achildtobegivenprotectionandcarenecessaryforhiswellbeing
(1)Achildshallbegivensuchprotectionandcareasisnecessaryforthewellbeingofthechild,
takingintoaccounttherightsanddutiesofthechildsparents,legalguardians,orotherindividuals,
institutions,services,agencies,organisationsorbodieslegallyresponsibleforthechild.
(2)Everyperson,institution,service,agency,organizationandbodyresponsibleforthecareor
protectionofchildrenshallconformwiththestandardsestablishedbytheappropriateauthorities,
particularlyintheareasofsafety,health,welfare,numberandsuitabilityoftheirstaffandcompetent
supervision.
PARTII
RightsandResponsibilitiesofaChild
RightsofaChild
3. ApplicationofChapterIVof1999Constitution,etc
(1)TheprovisionsinChapterIVoftheConstitutionoftheFederalRepublicofNigeria1999,or
anysuccessiveconstitutionalprovisionsrelatingtoFundamentalRights,shallapplyasifthoseprovisions
areexpresslystatedinthisAct.
(2)InadditiontotherightsguaranteedunderChapterIVoftheConstitutionoftheFederal
RepublicofNigeria,1999,orunderanysuccessiveconstitutionalprovisions,everychildhastherights
setoutinthisPartoftheAct.
4. Righttosurvivalanddevelopment
Everychildhasarighttosurvivalanddevelopment.

5. Righttoname
(1)Everychildhasarighttoanameand,accordingly,shallbegivenanameonhisbirthoron
suchotherdateasisdictatedbythecultureofhisparentsorguardian.
(2)ThebirthofeverychildshallberegisteredinaccordancewiththeprovisionsoftheBirth,
Death,etc.(CompulsoryRegistration)Act,1992.
6. Freedomofassociationandpeacefulassembly
Everychildhasarighttofreedomofassociationandpeacefulassemblyinconformitywiththe
lawandinaccordancewiththenecessaryguidanceanddirectionsofhisparentsorguardians.
7. Freedomofthought,conscienceandreligion
(1)Everychildhasarighttofreedomofthought,conscienceandreligion,
(2)Parentsand,whereapplicable,legalguardiansshallprovideguidanceanddirectioninthe
exerciseoftheserightshavingregardtotheevolvingcapacitiesandbestinterestofthechild.
(3)Thedutyofparentsand,whereapplicable,legalguardianstoprovideguidanceanddirection
intheenjoymentoftherightinsubsection(1)ofthissectionbytheirchildorwardshallberespectedby
allpersons,bodies,institutionsandauthorities.
(4)Wheneverthefostering,custody,guardianshiporadoptionofachildisinissue,therightof
thechildtobebroughtupinandtopracticehisreligionsshallbeaparamountconsideration.
8. Righttoprivateandfamilylife
(1)Everychildisentitledtohisprivacy,familylife,home,correspondence,telephone
conversationandtelegraphiccommunications,exceptasprovidedinsubsection(3)ofthissection.
(2)Nochildshallbesubjectedtoanyinterferencewithhisrightinsubsection(1)ofthissection,
exceptasprovidedinsubsection(3)ofthissection.
(3)Nothingintheprovisionofsubsections(1)and(2)ofthissectionshallaffecttherightsof
parentsand,whereapplicable,legalguardians,toexercisereasonablesupervisionandcontroloverthe
conductoftheirchildrenandwards.
9. Righttofreedomofmovement
(1)Everychildisentitledtofreedomofmovementsubjecttoparentalcontrolwhichisnot
harmfultothechild.
(2)Nothinginsubsection(1)ofthissectionshallaffecttherightofaparent,andwhere
applicable,alegalguardianorotherappropriateauthoritytoexercisecontroloverthemovementofthe
childintheinterestoftheeducation,safetyandwelfareofthechild.
10. Righttofreedomfromdiscrimination
(1)Achildshallnotbesubjectedtoanyformofdiscriminationmerelybyreasonofhisbelonging
toaparticularcommunityorethnicgrouporbyreasonofhisplaceoforigin,sex,religionorpolitical
opinion.
(2)Nochildshallbesubjectedtoanydisabilityordeprivationmerelybyreasonofthe
circumstancesofhisbirth.
11. Righttodignityofthechild
Everychildisentitledtorespectforthedignityofhisperson,andaccordingly,nochildshallbe
(a) subjectedtophysical,mentaloremotionalinjury,abuse,neglectormaltreatment,
includingsexualabuse;
(b) subjectedtotorture,inhumanordegradingtreatmentorpunishment;
(c) subjectedtoattacksuponhishonororreputation;or
(d) heldinslaveryorservitude,whileinthecareofaparent,legalguardianorschool
authorityoranyotherpersonorauthorityhavingthecareofthechild.
12. Righttoleisure,recreationandculturalactivities
(1)Everychildisentitledtorestandleisureandtoengageinplay,sportsandrecreational
activitiesappropriatetohisage.
(2)EverychildisentitledtoparticipatefullyintheculturalandartisticactivitiesoftheNigerian,
Africanandworldcommunities.
(3)EveryGovernment,person,institution,service,agency,organisationandbody,responsible
forthecareandwelfareofachildshall,atalltimes,ensureadequateopportunitiesforthechildinthe
enjoymentoftherightsprovidedforthechildinsubsections(1)and(2)ofthissection.
13. Righttohealthandhealthservices
(1)Everychildisentitledtoenjoythebestattainablestateofphysical,mentalandspiritual
health.
(2)EveryGovernment,parent,guardian,institution,service,agency,organisationorbody
responsibleforthecareofachildshallendeavourtoprovideforthechildthebestattainablestateof
health.
(3)EveryGovernmentinNigeriashall
(a) endeavourtoreduceinfantandchildmortalityrate;
(b) ensuretheprovisionofnecessarymedicalassistanceandhealthcareservicestoall
childrenwithemphasisonthedevelopmentofprimaryhealthcare;
(c) ensuretheprovisionofadequatenutritionandsafedrinkingwater;
(d) ensuretheprovisionofgoodhygieneandenvironmentalsanitation;
(e) combatdiseaseandmalnutritionwithintheframeworkofprimaryhealthcarethrough
theapplicationofappropriatetechnology;
(f) ensureappropriatehealthcareforexpectantandnursingmothers;and
(g) support,throughtechnicalandfinancialmeans,themobilisationofnationalandlocal
communityresourcesinthedevelopmentofprimaryhealthcareforchildren;
(4)Everyparentguardianorpersonhavingthecareandcustodyofachildundertheageoftwo
yearsshallensurethatthechildisprovidedwithfullimmunisation.
(5)Everyparent,guardianorpersonhavingthecareofachildwhofailsinthedutyimposedon
himundersubsection(4)ofthissectioncommitsanoffenceandisliableonconvictionfor
(a) afirstoffence,toafinenotexceedingfivethousandnaira;and
(b) secondoranysubsequentoffence,whetherinrespectofthatchildoranyotherchild,to
imprisonmentforatermnotexceedingonemonth.
(6)TheCourtmaymake,insubstitutionfororadditiontoanypenaltystipulatedunder
subsection(5)ofthissection,anordercompellingtheparentorguardianofachildtogetthe
childimmunised.
14. Righttoparentalcare,protectionandmaintenance
(1)Everychildhasarighttoparentalcareandprotection,andaccordingly,nochildshallbe
separatedfromhisparentsagainstthewishofthechildexcept
(a) forthepurposeofhiseducationandwelfare;or
(b) intheexerciseofajudicialdeterminationinaccordancewiththeprovisionsofthisAct,
inthebestinterestofthechild.
(2)Everychildhastherighttomaintenancebyhisparentsorguardiansinaccordancewiththe
extentoftheirmeans,andthechildhastheright,inappropriatecircumstances,toenforcethisrightin
theFamilyCourt.
15. Rightofachildtofree,compulsoryanduniversalprimaryeducation,etc.
(1)Everychildhastherighttofree,compulsoryanduniversalbasiceducationanditshallbethe
dutyoftheGovernmentinNigeriatoprovidesucheducation.
(2)Everyparentorguardianshallensurethathischildorwardattendsandcompleteshis
(a) primaryschooleducation;and
(b) juniorsecondaryeducation.
(3)Everyparent,guardianorpersonwhohasthecareandcustodyofachildwhohascompleted
hisbasiceducation,shallendeavourtosendthechildtoaseniorsecondaryschool,exceptasprovided
forinsubsection(4)ofthissection.
(4)Whereachildtowhomsubsection(3)ofthissectionappliesisnotsenttoseniorsecondary
school,thechildshallbeencouragedtolearnanappropriatetradeandtheemployerofthechildshall
providethenecessariesforlearningthetrade.
(5)Afemalechildwhobecomespregnant,beforecompletinghereducationshallbegiventhe
opportunity,afterdelivery,tocontinuewithhereducation,onthebasisofherindividualability.
(6)Whereaparent,guardianorpersonwhohascareandcustodyofachild,failsintheduty
imposedonhimundersubsection(2)ofthissection,commitsanoffenceandisliable
(a) onfirstconvictiontobereprimandedandorderedtoundertakecommunityservice;
(b) onsecondconvictiontoafineoftwothousandnairaorimprisonmentforatermnot
exceedingonemonthortobothsuchfineandimprisonment;and
(c) onanysubsequentconvictiontoafinenotexceedingfivethousandnairaor
imprisonmentforatermnotexceedingtwomonthsortobothsuchfineand
imprisonment.
(7)Theprovisionsofthissectionshallnotapplytochildrenwithmentaldisabilities.
16. Rightofachildinneedofspecialprotectionmeasure
(1)Everychildwhoisinneedofspecialprotectionmeasureshastherighttosuchmeasureof
protectionasisappropriatetohisphysical,social,economic,emotionalandmentalneedsandunder
conditionswhichensurehisdignity,promotehisselfrelianceandactiveparticipationintheaffairsof
thecommunity.
(2)Everyperson,authority,bodyorinstitutionthathasthecareortheresponsibilityfor
ensuringthecareofachildinneedofspecialprotectionmeasuresshallendeavour,withintheavailable
resources,toprovidethechildwithsuchassistanceandfacilitieswhicharenecessaryforhiseducation,
training,preparationforemployment,rehabilitation,andrecreationalopportunitiesinamanner
conducivetohisachievingthefullestpossiblesocialintegrationandindividualdevelopmentandhis
culturalandmoraldevelopment.
17. Rightoftheunbornchildtoprotectionagainstharm,etc.
(1)Achildmaybringanactionfordamagesagainstapersonforharmorinjurycausedtothe
childwillfully,recklessly,negligentlyorthroughneglectbefore,duringorafterthebirthofthatchild.
(2)Wherethefatherofanunbornchilddiesintestate,theunbornchildisentitled,ifhewas
conceivedduringthelifetimeofhisfather,tobeconsideredinthedistributionoftheestateofthe
deceasedfather.
(3)Wherethemotherofanunbornchilddiesintestatebeforethechildisdelivered,theunborn
childisentitled,ifhesurviveshismother,tobeconsideredinthedistributionoftheestateofthe
deceasedmother.
18. Contractualrightsofachild
(1)Nochildshallenterintoacontract,exceptasprovidedinthissection.
(2)Anycontract,exceptacontactfornecessaries,enteredintobyachildforrepaymentof
moneylentorforpaymentofgoodssuppliedtothechild,shallbevoid.
(3)Accordingly
(a) noactionshallbebroughtagainstachildbyapersonafterthechildhasattainedthe
ageofmajority,topayadebtcontractedbeforemajorityorratifiedonmajorityorany
promiseofcontractmadebythechildbeforemajority,whetherornottherewasnew
considerationforthepromisesorratificationafterthechildattainedmajority;
(b) ifachildwhohasenteredintoacontractforaloanwhichisvoidagreesaftermajority
topaytheloan,theagreementinwhateverformitmaybe,shallbevoidsofarasit
relatestomoneywhichispayableinrespectoftheloan.
19. Responsibilitiesofachildandparent
(1)Everychildhasresponsibilitiestowardshisfamilyandsociety,theFederalRepublicofNigeria
andotherlegallyrecognizedcommunities,nationallyandinternationally.
(2)Achildshall,subjecttohisageandabilityandsuchotherlimitationsasmaybecontainedin
thisActandanyotherlaw,to
(a) worktowardsthecohesionofhisfamilyandcommunity;
(b) respecthisparents,superiorsandeldersatalltimesandassistthemincaseofneed;
(c) servetheFederalRepublicofNigeriabyplacinghisphysicalandintellectualabilitiesat
hisservice;
(d) contributetothemoralwellbeingofthesociety;
(e) preserveamstrengthensocialandnationalsolidarity;
(f) preserveandstrengthentheindependenceandintegrityofFederalRepublicofNigeria;
(g) respecttheidealsofdemocracy,freedom,equality,humaneness,honestyandjustice
forallpersons;
(h) relatewithothermembersofthesociety,withdifferentculturalvaluesinthespiritof
tolerance,dialogueandconsultation;
(i) contributetothebestofhisabilitiesatalltimesandatalllevels,tothepromotionand
achievementofNigerian,Africanandworldunity;and
(j) contributetothebestofhisabilities.atalltimesandatalllevels,tothesolidarityofthe
Africanpeopleandthehumanrace.
20. Parent,etc.toprovideguidancewithrespecttochildsresponsibilities
Everyparent,guardian,institution,personandauthorityresponsibleforthecare,maintenance,
upbringing,education,training,socialisation,employmentandrehabilitationofachildhasthedutyto
providethenecessaryguidance,discipline,educationandtrainingforthechildinhisoritscaresuchas
willequipthechildtosecurehisassimilation,appreciationandobservanceoftheresponsibilitiessetout
inthisPartoftheAct.
PARTIII
ProtectionoftheRightsofaChild
21. Prohibitionofchildmarriage
Nopersonundertheageof18yearsiscapableofcontractingavalidmarriage,andaccordinglya
marriagesocontractedisnullandvoidandofnoeffectwhatsoever.
22. Prohibitionofchildbetrothal
(1)Noparent,guardianoranyotherpersonshallbetrothachildtoanyperson.
(2)Abetrothalincontraventionofsubsection(1)ofthissectionisnullandvoid.
23. Punishmentforchildmarriageandbetrothal
Aperson
(a) whomarriesachild;or
(b) towhomachildisbetrothed;or
(c) whopromotesthemarriageofachild;or
(d) whobetrothsachild,
commitsanoffenceandisliableonconvictiontoafineofN500,000;orimprisonmentforatermoffive
yearsortobothsuchfineandimprisonment.
24. Tattoosandskinmarks
(1)Nopersonshalltattooormakeaskinmarkorcauseanytattooorskinmarktobemadeona
child.
(2)ApersonwhotattoosormakesaskinmarkonachildcommitsanoffenceunderthisActand
isliableonconvictiontoafinenotexceedingfivethousandnairaorimprisonmentforatermnot
exceedingonemonthortobothsuchfineandimprisonment.
25. Exposuretouse,productionandtraffickingofnarcoticdrugs,etc.
(1)Nopersonshall
(a) exposeorinvolveachildintheuseofnarcoticdrugsandpsychotropicsubstances;or
(b) exposeorinvolveachildintheproductionortraffickingofnarcoticdrugsorpsychotopic
substances;or
(2)Apersonwhocontravenestheprovisionsofsubsection(1)or(2)ofthissectioncommitsan
offenceandisliableonconvictiontoimprisonmentforlife.
UseofChildreninOtherCriminalActivities
26. Useofchildreninothercriminalactivities
(1)Nopersonshallemploy,useorinvolveachildinanyactivityinvolvingorleadingtothe
commissionofanyotheroffencenotalreadyspecifiedinthisPartoftheAct.
(2)Apersonwhocontravenestheprovisionsofsubsection(1)ofthissectioncommitsan
offenceandisliableonconvictiontoimprisonmentforatermoffourteenyears.
27. Abduction,removalandtransferfromlawfulcustody
(1)Nopersonshallremoveortakeachildoutofthecustodyorprotectionofhisfatheror
mother,guardianorsuchotherpersonhavinglawfulcareorchargeofthechildagainstthewillofthe
father,mother,guardianorotherperson.
(2)Apersonwhocontravenestheprovisionsofsubsection(1)ofthissectioncommitsanoffenceandis
liableonconviction
(a) wherethechildisunlawfullyremovedortakenoutofFederalRepublicofNigeria
(i) withintentiontoreturnthechildtoNigeria,toimprisonmentforatermof
fifteenyears;or
(ii) withnointentiontoreturnthechildtoNigeria,toimprisonmentforatermof
twentyyears;
(b) wherethechildisunlawfullyremovedortakenoutoftheStateinwhichthefather,
mother,guardianorsuchotherpersonwhohaslawfulcareofthechildisordinarily
resident,toimprisonmentforatermoftenyears;or
(c) inanycase,toimprisonmentforatermofsevenyears.
ChildLabour
28. Prohibitionofexploitativelabour
(1)SubjecttothisAct,nochildshallbe
(a) subjectedtoanyforcedorexploitativelabour;or
(b) employedtoworkinanycapacityexceptwhereheisemployedbyamemberofhis
familyonlightworkofanagricultural,horticulturalordomesticcharacter;or
(c) required,inanycase,tolift,carryormoveanythingsoheavyastobelikelytoadversely
affecthisphysical,mental,spiritual,moralorsocialdevelopment;or
(d) employedasadomestichelpoutsidehisownhomeorfamilyenvironment.
(2)Nochildshallbeemployedorworkinanindustrialundertakingandnothinginthis
subsectionshallapplytoworkdonebychildrenintechnicalschoolsorsimilarapprovedinstitutionsif
theworkissupervisedbytheappropriateauthority.
(3)Anypersonwhocontravenesanyprovisionofsubsection(1)or(2)ofthissectioncommitsan
offenceandisliableonconvictiontoafinenotexceedingfiftythousandnairaorimprisonmentfora
termoffiveyearsortobothsuchfineandimprisonment.
(4)Whereanoffenceunderthissectioniscommittedbyabodycorporate,anypersonwhoat
thetimeofthecommissionoftheoffencewasaproprietor,director,generalmanagerorothersimilar
officer,servantoragentofthebodycorporateshallbedeemedtohavejointlyandseverallycommitted
theoffenceandmaybeliableonconvictiontoafineoftwohundredandfiftythousandnaira.
29. ApplicationofLabourAct
Theprovisionsrelatingtoyoungpersonsinsections58,59,60,61,62and63oftheLabourAct
shallapplytochildrenunderthisAct.
[L.F.N.2004Cap.L1.]
Buying,Selling,etc.,forthePurposeofBeggingAndProstitution,etc.
30. Prohibitionofbuying,selling,hiringorotherwisedealinginchildrenforthepurposeof
hawkingorbeggingforalmsorprostitution,etc.
(1)Nopersonshallbuy,sell,hire,letonhire,disposeoforobtainpossessionoforotherwise
dealinachild.
(2)Achildshallnotbeused
(a) forthepurposeofbeggingforalms,guidingbeggars,prostitution,domesticorsexual
labourorforanyunlawfulorimmoralpurpose;or
(b) asaslaveorforpracticessimilartoslaverysuchassaleortraffickingofthechild,debt
bondageorserfdomandforcedorcompulsorylabour;.
(c) forhawkingofgoodsorservicesonmaincitystreets,brothelsorhighways;
(d) foranypurposethatdeprivesthechildoftheopportunitytoattendandremainin
schoolasprovidedforundertheCompulsory,FreeUniversalBasicEducationAct;
(e) procuredorofferedforprostitutionorfortheproductionofpornographyorforany
pornographicperformance;and
(f) procuredorofferedforanyactivityintheproductionortraffickingofillegaldrugsand
anyotheractivityrelatingtoillicitdrugsasspecifiedintheNationalDrugLaw
EnforcementAgencyAct.
[L.F.N.20004Cap.N30]
(3)Apersonwhocontravenestheprovisionsofsubsection(1)ofthissectioncommitsan
offenceandisliableonconvictiontoimprisonmentforatermoftenyears.
UnlawfulSexualIntercourse,etc.
31. Unlawfulsexualintercoursewithachild,etc.
(1)Nopersonshallhavesexualintercoursewithachild.
(2)ApersonwhocontravenestheprovisionofSubsection(1)ofthissectioncommitsanoffence
ofrapeandisliableonconvictiontoimprisonmentforlife.
(3)Whereapersonischargedwithanoffenceunderthissection,itisimmaterialthat
(a) theoffenderbelievedthepersontobeoforabovetheageofeighteenyears;or
(b) thesexualintercoursewaswiththeconsentofthechild.
OtherFormsofSexualAbuseandExploitation
32. Formsofsexualabuseandexploitation
(1)Apersonwhosexuallyabusesorsexuallyexploitsachildinanymannernotalready
mentionedunderthisPartofthisActcommitsanoffence.
(2)Apersonwhocommitsanoffenceundersubsection(1)ofthissectionisliableonconviction
toimprisonmentforatermoffourteenyears.
OtherFormsofExploitation
33. Otherformsofexploitation
(1)ApersonwhoexploitsachildinanyotherformorwaynotalreadymentionedinthisPartof
thisActwhichisprejudicialtothewelfareofthechildcommitsanoffence.
(2)Apersonwhocommitsanoffenceundersubsection(1)ofthissectionisliableonconviction
toafineoffivehundredthousandnairaorimprisonmenttoatermoffiveyears,ortobothsuchfine
andimprisonment.
RecruitmentintotheArmedForces
34. ProhibitionofrecruitmentofchildrenintotheArmedForces
(1)NochildshallberecruitedintoanyofthebranchesofthearmedforcesoftheFederal
RepublicofNigeria.
(2)TheGovernmentoranyotherrelevantagencyorbodyshallensurethatnochildisdirectly
involvedinanymilitaryoperationorhostilities.
HarmfulPublication
35. Prohibitionofimportationofharmfulpublication
(1)NopersonshallimportanyharmfulpublicationunderthisAct.
(2)Apersonwhoimportsanyharmfulpublicationcommitsanoffenceandisliableonconviction
toafineofthirtythousandnairaorimprisonmentforatermofthreeyearsortobothsuchfineand
imprisonment.
36. Penaltyforharmfulpublication
(1)Apersonwho
(a) prints,publishes,sellsorletsonhireanyharmfulpublication;or
(b) hasinhispossessionforthepurposeofselling,orlettingonhireanyharmful
publication,
commitsanoffenceandisliableonconvictiontoafineoffiftythousandnairaorimprisonmentfora
termoffiveyearsortobothsuchfineandimprisonment.
(2)Whereapersonischargedwithanoffenceunderthissection,itisimmaterialthatthe
personhadnotexaminedthecontentsofthepublicationandhasnoreasonablecausetosuspectthat
thepublicationwasonetowhichthisActapplies.
37. Powertoissuewarrantofarrest,summons,search,etc.,forharmfulpublications
(1)Whereaninformationisbroughtbeforeacourtthatapersonhascommittedorissuspected
ofcommittinganoffenceundersection35or36ofthisActwithrespecttoanyharmfulpublication,the
Courtmayissueawarrantforthearrestofthatperson.
(2)TheCourtmay,ifsatisfiedbytheinformationsubstantiated,onoath,thatthereis
reasonablegroundforsuspectingthatapersonchargedwithorsuspectedofcommittinganoffencehas
inhispossessionorunderhiscontrol
(a) copiesofanyharmfulpublication;or
(b) anyplatepreparedforthepurposeofprintingcopiesofharmfulpublicationorany
photographicfilmpreparedforthatpurpose,
grantasearchwarrantauthorisingapoliceofficernamedthereintoenter(ifnecessarybyforce)any
premisesspecifiedinthewarrantandanyvehicle,orshoporstallusedbythesaidpersonforthe
purposeofanytradeorbusiness,andtosearchthepremises,vehicle,shoporstall.
(3)Thepoliceofficeronsearchingthepremises,mayseizeanyofthefollowingitems
(a) anycopyoftheharmfulpublicationandanyothercopieswhichthepoliceofficerhas
reasonablecausetobelievetobeharmfulpublication;and
(b) anyplateorphotographicfilmwhichthepoliceofficerhasreasonablecausetobelieve
tohavebeenpreparedforthepurposeofprintingcopiesofanyharmfulpublication.

38. PowerofCourttoorderforfeiture,etc.
(1)TheCourtbyorbeforewhichapersonisconvictedofanoffenceundersection35or36of
thisActmayorderforanycopyoftheharmfulpublicationandanyplaceorphotographicfilmprepared
forthepurposeofprintingtheharmfulpublicationfoundinthepossessionoftheconvictedperson
underhiscontrol,tobeforfeited.
(2)Thepowertoorderforfeitureundersubsection(1)ofthissectionshallnotextendtoacase
wheretheaccusedpersonhassuccessfullyraisedadefenceagainstthecharge.
(3)Noordermadeundersubsection(1)ofthissectionbyaMagistratesCourt,oraHighCourt
incaseofanappealfromaMagistratesCourttotheHighCourt,shalltakeeffect
(a) untiltheexpirationoftheordinarytimewithinwhichanappealmaybelodged,whether
bygivingnoticeofappealorapplyingforacasetobestatedfortheopinionoftheHigh
Court;or
(b) whereanappealisdulylodged,untiltheappealisfinallydecidedorabandoned.
(5)Beforeaforfeitureorderismadeunderthissection,theCourtshallheartheauthor,
copyrightownerormainpublisheroftheharmfulpublicationifhesowishes.
[EditorialNote:Subsection(4)omitted.NumberingasperGazette.]
Miscellaneous
39. Removalofjurisdictionallimitationofmagistrates,etc.
NotwithstandinganyjurisdictionallimitationonthepowersofaMagistratesCourtandany
othercourtinrelationtotheimpositionoffinesortermsofimprisonmentcontainedinanylaw,a
MagistratesCourtoranyothercourtbeforewhichtheoffencescreatedinthisPartofthisActaretried
shallhavethefulljurisdictionalpowerstoimposeuptothemaximumpenaltiesprescribedforthe
offencescreatedinthisPartofthisAct.
40. ApplicationofCriminalLawprovisions
Anypersoninanyotherlawsecuringtheprotectionofthechild,whetherbornorunborn,shall
continuetoapplyandisherebyadoptedfortheprotectionofthechildbythisAct,notwithstandingthat
theprovisionhasnototherwisebeenspecificallyprovidedforbythisAct.
PARTIV
ProtectionofChildren
41. Childassessmentorders
(1)AStateGovernmentoranappropriateauthoritymayapplytotheCourtforachild
assessmentorderwithrespecttoachildandtheCourtmaymaketheorder,ifitissatisfiedthat
(a) theapplicanthasreasonablecausetosuspectthatthechildissuffering,orlikelyto
suffer,significantharm;
(b) anassessmentofthestateofthehealthordevelopmentofthechildorofthewayin
whichthechildhasbeentreated,isrequiredtoenabletheapplicanttodetermine
whetherornotthechildissuffering,orislikelytosuffer,significantharm;and
(c) itisunlikelythatsuchassessmentwillbemade,orbesatisfactory,intheabsenceofan
orderunderthissection.
(2)Acourtmaytreatanapplicationunderthissectionasanapplicationforanemergency
protectionorder.
(3)NoCourtshallmakeachildassessmentorderifitissatisfiedthat
(a) therearegroundsformakinganemergencyprotectionorderwithrespecttothechild;
and
(b) itoughttomakeanemergencyprotectionorderratherthanachildassessmentorder.
(4)Achildassessmentordershall
(a) specifythedateonwhichtheassessmentistobegin;and
(b) haveeffectforsuchperiod,notexceedingninedaysbeginningwiththatdate,asmaybe
specifiedintheorder.
(5)Whereachildassessmentorderisinforcewithrespecttoachilditshallbethedutyofany
personwhoisinapositiontoproducethechildto
(a) producehimtosuchpersonasmaybenamedintheorder;and
(b) complywithsuchdirectionsrelatingtotheassessmentofthechildastheCourtthinks
fittospecifyintheorder.
(6)Achildassessmentordershallcontainanauthoritytothepersoncarryingoutthe
assessment,oranypartoftheassessment,todosoinaccordancewiththetermsoftheorder.
(7)Notwithstandingsubsection(6)ofthissection,ifthechildhassufficientunderstandingto
makeaninformeddecision,hemayrefusetosubmittomedicalorpsychiatricexaminationoranyother
assessment.
(8)Achildmayonlybekeptawayfromhome
(a) inaccordancewithdirectionsspecifiedinthechildassessmentorder;
(b) ifitisnecessaryforthepurposeoftheassessment;and
(c) forsuchperiodorperiodsasmaybespecifiedintheassessmentorder.
(9)Whereachildistobekeptawayfromhome,theordershallcontainsuchdirectionsasthe
Courtthinksfitwithregardtothecontactthatthechildmustbeallowedtohavewithotherpersons
whileawayfromhome.
(10)Apersonmakinganapplicationforachildassessmentordershall,beforethehearingofthe
application,takesuchstepsasarereasonablypracticabletoensurethatnoticeoftheapplicationis
givento
(a) theparentsofthechild;
(b) apersonwho,thoughnotaparentofthechild,hasparentalresponsibilityforthechild;
or
(c) anyotherpersonhavingthecareofthechild;
(d) apersoninwhosefavouracontactisinforcewithrespecttothechild;
(e) apersonwhoisallowedtohavecontactwiththechildbyvirtueofanordermadeunder
section55ofthisAct;or
(f) thechildconcerned.
(11)RulesofCourtmaymakeprovisionastothecircumstancesinwhich
(a) anyofthepersonsmentionedinsubsection(10)ofthissection;or
(b) suchotherpersonsasmaybespecifiedintherules,mayapplytotheCourtforachild
assessmentordertobevariedordischarged.
42. Emergencyprotectionorders
(1)AStateGovernmentoranappropriateauthoritymayapplytotheCourtforanemergency
protectionorderwithrespecttoachildandtheCourtmaymaketheorderifitissatisfied
(a) thatthereisreasonablecausetobelievethatthechildislikelytosuffersignificantharm
if
(i) heisnotremovedtoanEmergencyProtectionCentreoranyotherapproved
suitableaccommodationprovidedbyoronbehalfoftheapplicant;or
(ii) hedoesnotremainintheplaceinwhichheisthenbeingaccommodated;and
(b) inthecaseofanapplicationmadebyaStateGovernmentoranyappropriateauthority,
that
(i) theapplicanthasreasonablecausetosuspectthatthechildissuffering,oris
likelytosuffer,significantharm;
(ii) enquirieswithrespecttothewelfareofthechildarebeingfrustratedbyaccess
tothechildbeingunreasonablyrefusedtoapersonauthorisedtoseekaccess;
and
(iii) theapplicanthasreasonablecausetobelievethataccesstothechildisrequired
asamatterofurgency.
(2)Aperson
(a) seekingaccesstoachildinconnectionwithenquiresofanykindmentionedin
subsection(1)ofthissection;and
(b) purportingtobeapersonauthorisedtodoso,
shall,onbeingaskedtodoso,producesomedulyauthenticateddocumentasevidencethatheissucha
person.
(3)Whileanemergencyprotectionorderisinforce,it
(a) givestheapplicantparentalresponsibilityforthechild;
(b) operatesasadirectiontoapersonwhoisinapositiontodosotocomplywithany
requesttoproducethechildtotheapplicant;and
(c) authorisestheremovalofthechildatanytimetoaccommodationprovidedbyoron
behalfoftheapplicantandhisbeingkeptthere;or
(d) preventsthechildfrombeingremovedfromanyhospital,orotherplace,inwhichhe
wasbeingaccommodatedimmediatelybeforethemakingoftheorder.
(4)Whereanemergencyprotectionorderisinforce,theapplicantshall
(a) onlyexercisethepowergivenbyvirtueofsubsection(3)(c)or(d)ofthissectioninorder
tosafeguardthewelfareofthechild;
(b) takeonlysuchaction,inmeetinghisparentalresponsibilityforthechild,asis
reasonablyrequiredtosafeguardorpromotethewelfareofthechild,havingregard,in
particular,tothedurationoftheorder;and
(c) complywiththerequirementsofanyregulationsmadebytheMinisterforthepurposes
ofthissubsection.
(5)WheretheCourtmakesanemergencyprotectionorder,itmaygivesuchdirectionsasit
considersappropriatewithrespectto
(a) thecontactwhichis,orisnot,tobeallowedbetweenthechildandanynamedperson;or
(b) medicalorpsychiatricexaminationoranyotherassessmentofthechild.
(6)Whereadirectionisgivenundersubsection(5)(b)ofthissection,thechildmay,ifhehas
sufficientunderstandingtomakeaninformeddecision,refusetosubmittotheexaminationorother
assessment.
(7)Adirectiongivenundersubsection(5)(a)ofthissectionmayimposesuchconditionsasthe
Courtconsidersappropriateandadirectionundersubsection(5)(b)ofthissectionmay
(a) prohibittheexaminationorassessmentofthechild;or
(b) allowtheexaminationorassessmentofthechildonlywhentheCourtsodirects.
(8)Adirectionundersubsection(5)ofthissectionmaybe
(a) givenwhentheemergencyprotectionorderismadeoratanytimewhileitisinforce;
and
(b) variedatanytimeoftheapplicationofanyclassofpersonsprescribedbyRulesofCourt
forthepurposesofthissubsection.
(9)Whereanemergencyprotectionorderisinforceinrespectofachildandtheapplicanthas
exercisedthepowerconferredby
(a) subsection(3)(c)ofthissection,butitappearstotheapplicantthatitissafeforthe
childtobesoreturned;or
(b) Subsection(3)(d)ofthissection,butitappearstotheapplicantthatitissafeforthe
childtobeallowedtoberemovedfromtheplaceinquestion,
theapplicantshallreturnthechildorallowthechildtobesoremoved,asthecasemaybe.
(10)Wheretheapplicantisrequiredbysubsection(9)ofthissectiontoreturnthechild,the
applicantshall
(a) returnthechildtothecareofthepersonfromwhosecarethechildwasremoved;or
(b) ifthatisnotreasonablypracticable,returnthechildtothecareof
(i) aparentofthechild;or
(ii) apersonwho,thoughnotaparentofthechild,hasparentalresponsibilityfor
thechild;or
(iii) suchotherpersonastheapplicant,withtheagreementoftheCourt,considers
appropriate.
(11)Wheretheapplicanthasreturnedachildorallowedachildtoberemovedasrequiredby
subsection(9)ofthissection,theapplicantmayagain,exercisethepowersconferredbysubsection(3)
(c)and(d)ofthissectionatanytimewhiletheemergencyprotectionorderremainsinforce,ifit
appearstotheapplicantthatachangeinthecircumstancesofthecasemakesitnecessaryforhimtodo
so.
(12)Whereanemergencyprotectionorderisinforce,theapplicantshall,subjecttoany
directiongivenundersubsection(5)ofthissection,allowthechildreasonablecontactwith
(a) theparentofthechild;
(b) apersonwho,thoughnotaparentofthechild,hasparentalresponsibilityforthechild;
(c) apersonwithwhomthechildwaslivingimmediatelybeforethemakingoftheorder;
(d) apersoninwhosefavouracontactorderisinforcewithrespecttothechild;
(e) apersonwhoisallowedtohavecontactwiththechildbyvirtueofanordermadeunder
section55ofthisAct;and
(f) apersonactingonbehalfofanyofthepersonsspecifiedinparagraphs(a)to(e)ofthis
subsection.
(13)Whetheritisreasonablypracticabletodoso,anemergencyprotectionordershallname
thechild,andwhereitdoesnotnamethechilditshalldescribethechild,asclearlyaspossible.
(14)Apersonwhowillfullyobstructsapersonexercisingthepowerundersubsection(3)(c)and
(d)ofthissectiontoremove,orpreventtheremovalofachild,commitsanoffenceandisliableon
summaryconvictiontoafineoftwothousand,fivehundrednairaorimprisonmentforatermofthree
monthsortobothsuchfineandimprisonment.
43. Durationofemergencyprotectionorders,etc.
(1)Anemergencyprotectionordershallhaveeffectforsuchperiod,notexceedingninedays,as
maybespecifiedintheorder.
(2)WheretheCourtmakinganemergencyprotectionorderwould,butforthissubsection,
specifyaperiodofninedaysastheperiodforwhichtheorderistohaveeffect,butthelastofthose
ninedaysisapublicholidayoraSunday,theCourtmayspecifyaperiodwhichendsatnoononthefirst
laterdaywhichisnotapublicholidayoraSunday.
(3)Whereanemergencyprotectionorderismadeonanapplicationundersection42ofthis
Act,theperiodofninedaysmentionedinsubsection(2)ofthissectionshallbeginwiththefirstdayon
whichthechildwastakenintopoliceprotectionundersection44ofthisAct.
(4)Apersonwho
(a) hasparentalresponsibilityforachildasaresultofanemergencyprotectionorder;and
(b) isentitledtoapplyforacareorderwithrespecttoachild,
mayapplytotheCourtfortheextensionoftheperiodduringwhichtheemergencyprotectionorderis
tohaveeffect.
(5)Onanapplicationundersubsection(4)ofthissection,theCourtmayextendtheperiod
duringwhichtheorderistohaveeffect,bysuchperiod,notexceedingsevendays,ifithasreasonable
causetobelievethatthechildconcernedislikelytosuffersignificantharmiftheorderisnotextended.
(6)Anemergencyprotectionordermayonlybeextendedonce.
(7)Notwithstandinganyenactmentorruleoflawwhichwouldotherwisepreventitfromdoing
so,acourthearinganapplicationfor,orwithrespecttoanemergencyprotectionordermaytake
accountof
(a) anystatementcontainedinanyreportmadetotheCourtinthecourseof,orin
connectionwith,hearing;or
(b) anyevidencegivenduringthehearing,whichis,intheopinionoftheCourt,relevantto
theapplication.
(8)AnyofthefollowingpersonsmayapplytotheCourtforanemergencyprotectionorderto
discharge
(a) thechild;or
(b) aparentofachild;or
(c) apersonwhohasparentalresponsibilityforthechild;or
(d) apersonwithwhomthechildwaslivingimmediatelybeforemakingoftheorder.
(9)Noapplicationforthedischargeofanemergencyprotectionordershallbeheardbythe
Courtbeforetheexpiryoftheperiodofseventytwohoursbeginningwiththemakingoftheorder.
(10)Noappealmaybemadeagainstthemakingof,orrefusaltomake,anemergency
protectionorderoragainstanydirectionsgivenbytheCourtinconnectionwiththeemergency
protectionorder.
(11)Subsection(8)ofthissectiondoesnotapply
(a) wherethepersonwhowouldotherwisebeentitledtoapplyforthedischargeofthe
emergencyprotectionorder
(i) wasgivennotice,inaccordancewiththeRulesofCourt,ofthehearingatwhich
theorderwasmade;and
(ii) waspresentatthehearing;or
(b) toanyemergencyprotectionorder,theeffectiveperiodofwhichhasbeenextended
undersubsection(5)ofthissection.
(12)Acourtmakinganemergencyprotectionordermaydirectthattheapplicantmay,in
exercisinganypowerwhichhehasbyvirtueoftheorder,beaccompaniedbyaregisteredmedical
practitioner,registerednurseorregisteredhealthvisitor,ifhesochooses.
44. Childrentakenintopoliceprotectionincasesofemergency
(1)WherethespecialisedchildrenpoliceinaStatehasreasonablecausetobelievethatachild
isotherwiselikelytosuffersignificantharm,aspecialisedchildrenpoliceofficermaytakethechildinto
policeprotectionby
(a) removingthechildtoanEmergencyProtectionCentreoranyotherapprovedsuitable
accommodationandkeepingthechildthere;or
(b) takingsuchstepsasarereasonabletopreventthechildfrombeingremovedfromany
hospital,orotherplace,inwhichthechildisthenbeingaccommodated.
(2)Assoonasisreasonablypracticableaftertakingachildintopoliceprotection,thepolice
officerconcernedshall
(a) informtheStateGovernmentwithinwhoseareathechildwastakenofthestepsthat
havebeen,andaretobetakenwithrespecttothechildunderthissectionandthe
reasonsfortakingthosesteps;
(b) givedetailsofthecasetotheappropriateauthoritywithinwhoseareathechildis
ordinarilyresident,thatis,theappropriateauthorityoftheplaceinwhichthechildis
beingaccommodated;
(c) informthechild,ifheappearscapableofunderstanding,of
(i) thestepsthathavebeentakenwithrespecttohimunderthissectionandofthe
reasonsfortakingthosesteps;and
(ii) furtherstepsthatmaybetakenwithrespecttohimunderthissection;
(d) takesuchstepsasarereasonablypracticabletodiscoverthewishesandfeelingsofthe
child;
(e) securethatthecaseisenquiredintobyanofficerdesignatedforthepurposeofthis
sectionbytheofficerinchargeofthespecialisedchildrenpoliceintheStateconcerned;
and
(f) wherethechildwastakenintoprotectionbybeingremovedtoanaccommodation
whichisnotprovided
(i) byoronbehalfofaStateGovernment,
(ii) asarefuge,incompliancewiththerequirementsofsection48ofthisAct,
securethatheismovedtoanEmergencyProtectionCentreoranyotherapprovedsuitable
accommodationwhichissoprovided.
(3)Assoonasisreasonablypracticableaftertakingchildintopoliceprotection,thepolice
officerconcernedshalltakesuchstepsasarereasonablypracticabletoinform
(a) theparentsofthechild;
(b) apersonwho,thoughnotaparentofthechild,hasparentalresponsibilityforthechild;
and
(c) anyotherpersonwithwhomthechildwaslivingImmediatelybeforebeingtakeninto
policeprotection,
thereasonsfortakingthosestepsandthefurtherstepsthatmaybetakenwithrespecttothechildunder
thissection.
(4)Apoliceofficerdesignatedundersubsection(3)(c)ofthissectionshall,oncompletingan
enquiryunderthatsubsection,releasethechildfrompoliceprotectionunlessheconsidersthatthereis
stillreasonablecauseforbelievingthatthechildislikelytosuffersignificantharmifreleased.
(5)Nochildmaybekeptinpoliceprotectionformorethanseventytwohours.
(6)Whileachildisbeingkeptinpoliceprotection,thedesignatedofficermayapplyonbehalfof
theappropriateauthorityforanemergencyprotectionordertobemadeundersection42ofthisAct
withrespecttothechild.
(7)Anapplicationmaybemadeundersubsection(6)ofthissectionwhetherornotthe
appropriateauthorityknowsofitoragreestoitsbeingmade.
(8)Whileachildisbeingkeptinpoliceprotection,thepoliceofficerconcernedorthe
designatedofficershallnothaveparentalresponsibilityforhim,butdesignatedofficershalldowhatis
reasonableinallthecircumstancesofthecaseforthepurposeofsafeguardingorpromotingthewelfare
ofthechild,havingregardinparticulartothelengthoftheperiodduringwhichthechildwillbeso
protected.
(9)Whereachildhasbeentakenintopoliceprotection,thedesignatedofficershallallow
(a) theparentsofthechild;
(b) apersonwho,thoughnotaparentofthechildhasparentalresponsibilityforthechild;
(c) apersonwithwhomthechildwaslivingimmediatelybeforehewastakenintopolice
protection;
(d) apersoninwhosefavouracontactorderisinforcewithrespecttothechild;
(e) apersonwhoisallowedtohavecontactwiththechildbyvirtueofanordermadeunder
section55ofthisAct;or
(f) apersonactingonbehalfofthepersonsspecifiedinparagraphs(a)to(e)ofthis
subsection,tohavesuchcontact,ifany,withthechildas,intheopinionofthe
designatedofficer,inreasonableandinthebestinterestofthechild.
(10)Whereachildwhohasbeentakenintopoliceprotectionisinanaccommodationprovided
by,oronbehalfof,theappropriateauthority,subsection(9)ofthissectionshallhaveeffectasif
referencestodesignatedofficerwerereferencestotheappropriateauthority.
45. DutyofaStateGovernmenttoinvestigate
(1)WhereaStateGovernment
(a) isinformedthatachildwholives,orisfound,intheState
(i) isthesubjectofanemergencyprotectionorder;or
(ii) hasbeentakenintopoliceprotection;or
(b) hasreasonablecausetosuspectthatachildwholives,orisfound,intheState,
issuffering,orislikelytosuffer,significantharm,theStateGovernmentshallmake,orcausetobe
made,suchenquiriesasitconsidersnecessarytoenableittodecidewhetheritshouldtakeanyaction
tosafeguardorpromotethewelfareofthechild.
(2)WhereaStateGovernmenthasobtainedanemergencyprotectionorderwithrespecttoa
child,itshallmake,orcausetobemade,suchenquiriesasitconsidersnecessarytoenableittodecide
whatactionitshouldtaketosafeguardorpromotethewelfareofthechild.
(3)Theenquiriesmadeundersubsection(2)ofthissectionshall,inparticular,bedirected
towardsestablishing
(a) whethertheStateGovernmentshouldmakeanapplicanttotheCourt,orexerciseany
ofitsotherpowersunderthisAct,withrespecttothechild;
(b) whether,inthecaseofachild
(i) withrespecttowhomanemergencyprotectionorderhasbeenmade;and
(ii) whoisnotinaccommodationprovidedbyoronbehalfoftheappropriate
authority,itwouldbeinthebestinterestofthechild,whileanemergency
protectionorderremainsinforceforthechildtobeinanaccommodationso
provided;and
(c) whetherinthecaseofachildwhohasbeentakenintopoliceprotection,itwouldbein
thebestinterestsofthechildfortheappropriateauthoritytoaskforanapplicationto
bemadeundersection43(6)ofthisAct.
(4)Whereenquiriesarebeingmadeundersubsection(1)ofthissectionwithrespecttoachild,
theStateGovernmentconcernedshall,withaviewtoenablingittodeterminewhataction,ifany,to
takerespecttothechild,takesuchstepsasarereasonablypracticableto
(a) obtainaccesstothechild;or
(b) ensurethataccesstothechildisobtained,onitsbehalf,byapersonauthorisedbyitfor
thepurpose,unlesstheStateGovernmentissatisfiedthatitalreadyhassufficient
informationwithrespecttothechild.
(5)Where,asaresultofenquiriesunderthissection,itappearstotheStateGovernmentthat
therearemattersconnectedwiththeeducationofthechildwhichshouldbeinvestigated,itshall
consulttherelevanteducationauthority.
(6)Where,inthecourseofenquiriesunderthissection,anofficeroftheStateGovernment
concernedorapersonauthorisedbytheStateGovernmenttoactonitsbehalfinconnectionwiththose
enquiriesis
(a) refusedaccesstothechildconcerned;or
(b) deniedinformationastothewhereaboutsofthechild,theStateGovernmentshall
applyforanemergencyprotectionorder,achildassessmentorder,acareorderora
supervisionorderwithrespecttothechild,unlessitissatisfiedthatthewelfareofthe
childcanbesatisfactorilysafeguardedwithoutitsdoingso.
(7)If,onconclusionofanyenquiryorreviewmadeunderthissection,theStatedecidesnotto
applyforanemergencyprotectionorder,achildassessmentorder,acareorder,orasupervisionorder,
itshall
(a) considerwhetheritwouldbeappropriatetoreviewthecaseatalaterdate;and
(b) ifitdecidesthatitwouldbeappropriatetoreviewthecase,determinethedateon
whichthatreviewistobegin.
(8)Where,asaresultofcomplyingwiththissection,aStateGovernmentconcludesthatit
shouldtakeactiontosafeguardorpromotethewelfareofthechild,itshalltakethataction,iftheaction
iswithinitspoweranditisreasonablypracticableforittodoso.
(9)WhereaStateGovernmentismakinganenquiryunderthissection,theStateGovernment
referredtoinsubsection(11)ofthissectionshallassistitwiththeenquiry,inparticular,byproviding
relevantinformationandadvice,ifcalledonbytheStateGovernmenttodoso.
(10)Subsection(9)ofthissectiondoesnotobligeaStateGovernmenttoassistanyotherState
Governmentwheredoingsowouldbeunreasonableinallcircumstancesofthecase.
(11)WhereaStateGovernmentismakinganenquiryunderthissectionwithrespecttoachild
whoappearstoittobeordinarilyresidentwithinanotherState,itshallconsulttheGovernmentofthat
otherStateandtheGovernmentofthatotherStatemayundertakethenecessaryenquiryintheplaceof
theStateGovernmentthatcommencedtheenquiry.
46. Disclosureofwhereabouts,etc.ofchildrenwhomaybeinneedofemergencyprotection
(1)Whereitappearstoacourtmakinganemergencyprotectionorderthatadequate
informationastothewhereaboutsofachild
(a) isnotavailabletotheapplicantfortheemergencyprotectionorder;or
(b) isavailabletoanotherpersonwhoisnottheapplicant,
theCourtmayinclude,intheorder,aprovisionrequiringthatotherpersontodisclose,ifaskedtodoso
bytheapplicant,anyinformationthathemayhaveastothewhereaboutsofthechild.
(2)Nopersonshallbeexcusedfromcomplyingwitharequirementundersubsection(1)ofthis
sectiononthegroundsthatcomplyingmightincriminatehimorhisspouseofanoffence,buta
statementoradmissionmadeincompliancewiththerequirementshallnotbeadmissibleinevidence
againsteitheroftheminproceedingsforanoffence,otherthanperjury.
(3)Anemergencyprotectionordermayauthorizetheapplicanttoenterpremisesspecifiedby
theorderandsearchforthechildwithrespecttowhomtheorderismade,andtheCourtmay,if
satisfiedthatthereisreasonablecausetobelievethattheremaybeanotherchildonthosepremises
withrespecttowhomanemergencyprotectionorderoughttobemade,makeanorderauthorizingthe
applicanttosearchfortheotherchildonthosepremises.
(4)Where
(a) anorderhasbeenmadeundersubsection(3)ofthissection;
(b) thechildconcernedhasbeenfoundonthepremises;and
(c) theapplicantissatisfiedthatthegroundsformakingemergencyprotectionorderexist
withrespecttothechild,
theapplicantshallnotifytheCourt,accordingly.
(5)Apersonwhowillfullyobstructsapersonexercisingthepowerofentryandsearchunder
subsection(3)ofthissectioncommitsanoffenceandisliableonsummaryconvictiontoafineoftwenty
thousandnairaorimprisonmentforatermofthreemonthsortobothsuchfineandimprisonment.

47. Abductionofchildrenincare,etc.
(1)Apersonwhoknowinglyandwithoutlawfulauthorityorreasonableexcuse
(a) takesorkeepsachildtowhomthissectionappliesawayfromthepersonresponsible
forthechild;or
(b) induces,assistsorincitesachildtowhomthissectionappliestorunawayorstayaway
fromthepersonresponsibleforthechild,
commitsanoffenceunderthissectionandshallbeliableonconvictiontoafinenotexceedingseventy
thousandnairaorimprisonmentforatermnotexceedingthreeyearsortobothsuchfineand
imprisonment.
(2)Thissectionappliesinrelationtoachildwhois
(a) incare;
(b) thesubjectofanemergencyprotectionorder;or
(c) takenintopoliceprotection
48. Refugeforchildrenatrisk
(1)Whereitisproposedtouseavoluntaryhomeorregisteredchildrenshometoprovide
refugeforchildrenwhoappeartobeatriskofharm,theMinistermayissueacertificateunderthis
sectionwithrespecttothathome.
(2)Whereanappropriateauthorityoravoluntaryorganisationarrangesforafosterparentto
providesucharefuge,theMinistermayissueacertificateunderthissectionwithrespecttothatfoster
parent.
(3)Whereacertificateisinforcewithrespecttoahome,noneoftheprovisionscontainedin
thisActoranyotherlawrelatingto
(a) theharbouringofachildwhohasabscondedfromresidentialestablishments;or
(b) compelling,persuading,incitingorassistingachildtobeabsentfromdetention;or
(c) theabductionofachild,
shallapplyinrelationtoapersonprovidingrefugeforachildinthathome.
(4)Whereacertificateisinforcewithrespecttoafosterparent,theprovisionsreferredtoin
subsection(3)ofthissectionshallnotapplyinrelationtotheprovisionbyhimofarefugeforachildin
accordancewitharrangementsmadebytheappropriateauthorityorvoluntaryorganisation.
(5)TheMinistermaybyregulations
(a) makeprovisionsastothemannerinwhichcertificates,maybeissued;
(b) imposeconditionswhichshallbecompliedwithwhileacertificateisinforce;and
(c) provideforthewithdrawalofcertificatesinprescribedcircumstances.
49. RulesandregulationsunderthisPart
(1)Withoutprejudicetosection165ofthisActoranyotherpowertomakesuchrules,the
Courtmaymakerulesspecifyingtheproceduretobefollowedinconnectionwiththeproceedingsunder
thisPartofthisAct.
(2)Therulesmay,inparticular,makeprovisions
(a) astotheforminwhichanapplicationistobemadeoradirectionistobegiven;
(b) prescribingthepersonswhoaretobenotifiedof
(i) themakingorextension,ofanemergencyprotectionorder;or
(ii) themakingofanapplicationundersection42(4)or(5)or43(6)ofthisAct;and
(c) astothecontentofanynotificationandthemannerinwhich,andthepersonbywhom,
itistobegiven.
(3)TheMinistrymay,byregulations,providethat,where
(a) anemergencyprotectionorderhasbeenmadewithrespecttoachild;
(b) theapplicantfortheorderwasnottheappropriateauthoritywithinwhoseareathe
childisordinarilyresident;and
(c) theappropriateauthorityisoftheopinionthatitwouldbeinthebestinterestofthe
childfortheapplicantsresponsibilitiesundertheordertobetransformedtoit,
theappropriateauthorityshall,subjecttoitshavingcompliedwithanyconditionsimposedbythe
regulations,betreated,forthepurposeofthisAct,asthoughitandnottheoriginalapplicanthad
appliedfor,andbeengranted,theorder.
(4)Regulationsmadeundersubsection(3)ofthissectionmay,inparticular,makeprovisionsas
to
(a) theconsiderationstowhichtheappropriateauthorityistohaveregardininformingan
opinionasmentionedinsubsection(3)(c)ofthissection;and
(b) thetimeatwhichresponsibilityunderanyemergencyprotectionorderistobetreated
ashavingbeentransferredtoanappropriateauthority.

PARTV
ChildreninNeedofCareandProtection
50. Powerofcertainpersonstobringchildreninneedtocareandprotectionbeforeacourtin
certaincases
(1)Achilddevelopmentofficer,apoliceofficeroranyotherpersonauthorisedbytheMinister
maybringachildbeforetheCourtifhehasreasonablegroundsforbelievingthatthechild
(a) isanorphanorisdesertedbyhisrelatives;
(b) hasbeenneglectedorilltreatedorbatteredbythepersonhavingthecareandcustody
ofthechild;
(c) hasaparentorguardianwhodoesnotexerciseproperguidanceandcontroloverthe
child;
(d) iffounddestitute,hasbothparentsorhissurvivingparent,undergoingimprisonmentor
mentallydisorderedorotherwiseseverelyincapacitated;
(e) isunderthecareofaparentorguardianwho,byreasonofcriminalordrunkenhabits,is
unfittohavethecareofthechild;
(f) isthedaughterofafatherwhohasbeenconvictedoftheoffenceofdefilementor
indecenttreatmentofanyofhisdaughters;
(g) isfoundwanderingorhasnohomeorsettledplaceofabode,isonthestreetorother
publicplace,orhasnovisiblemeansofsubsistence;
(h) isfoundbeggingorreceivingalms,whetherornotthereisanypretenceofsinging,
playing,performing,offeringanythingforsaleorotherwiseorisfoundinanystreet,
premisesorplaceforthepurposeofsobeginningorreceivingalms;
(i) accompaniesanypersonwhenthatpersonisbeggingorreceivingalms,whetherornot
thereisanypretenceofsinging,playing,performing,offeringanythingforsale,or
otherwise;
(j) frequentsthecompanyofareputedthieforcommonorreputedprostitute;
(k) islodgingorresidinginahouseorthepartofahouseusedbyaprostituteforthe
purposeofprostitution,orisotherwiselivingincircumstancescalculatedtocause,
encourageoffavourtheseductionorprostitutionofthechild;
(l) isachildinrelationtowhomanoffenceagainstmoralityhasbeencommittedor
attempted;
(m) isotherwiseexposedtomoralorphysicaldanger;
(n) isotherwiseinneedofcare,protectionorcontrol;or
(o) isbeyondthecontrolofhisparentsorguardians.
(2)Thepersonmakinganapplicationundersubsection(1)ofthissectionshall,beforethe
hearingoftheapplication,takesuchstepsasarereasonablypracticabletoensurethatnoticeofthe
applicationisgivento
(a) theparentsofthechild;or
(b) apersonwho,thoughnotaparentofthechild,hasparentalresponsibilityforthechild;
or
(c) anyotherpersonwhohasthecareofthechild;and
(d) thechildconcerned,ifhehassufficientunderstanding.
(3)TheCourt,ifsatisfiedthatachildbroughtbeforeitcomeswithinanyoftheparagraphsof
subsection(1)ofthissectionmay
(a) causetheparentorguardianofthechildtoenterintoarecognisancetoexerciseproper
careandguardianshipoverthechild;or
(b) makeacorrectiveorder
(i) committingthechildtothecareofanyfirstpersonwhetherarelativeornot,
whoiswillingtoundertakethecareofthechild;or
(ii) sendingthechildtoanapprovedinstitution,inexceptionalcircumstances
whereanoninstitutionalmeasureisimpracticableorinappropriate;
(c) withoutmakinganyotherorder,orinadditiontomakinganorderunderparagraph(b)
ofthissubsection,makeanorderplacingthechildforaspecifiedperiod,notexceeding
threeyears,underthesupervisionofasupervisionofficer,orofsomeotherperson
appointedforthepurposebytheCourt.
(4)Achildshallnotbedeemedtocomewithinthescopeofparagraph(j)ofsubsection(1)of
thissection,iftheonlycommonorreputedprostitutewhosecompanythechildfrequentsisthemother
ofthechildanditisprovedthatsheexercisesproperguidanceandduecaretoprotectthechildfrom
moraldanger.
(5)Forthepurposeofparagraph(m)ofsubsection(1)ofthissection,butwithoutprejudiceto
thegeneralityofthewordsthereof,thefactthatachildisfound
(a) destituteorwandering,withoutanysettledplaceofabodeandwithoutvisiblemeansof
subsistence;
(b) beggingorreceivingalms,whetherornotthereisanypretenceofsinging,playing,
performingorofferinganythingforsaleorotherwise;
(c) loiteringforthepurposeofbeggingorreceivingalms;
(d) hawkingorstreettrading;or
(e) livinginthestreets,underbridges,inmarketplaces,inmotorparksorinotherpublic
places,
isevidencethatthechildisexposedtomoraldanger.
(6)Acourt,beforewhichapersonisconvictedofhavingcommitted,inrespectofachild,any
offencereferredtoinparagraph(f)or(i)ofsubsection(1)ofthissection,may
(a) directthatthechildbebroughtbeforeacourtwithaviewtothatcourtmakingsuch
orderundersubsection(2)ofthissectionasmaybeproper;or
(b) ifsatisfiedthattheevidencebeforeitissufficienttoenableitproperlyexercise
jurisdiction,notwithstandinganythingtothecontraryinPartXIIIofthisAct,makeany
orderwhichthecourthaspowertomake.
51. Makeorderwhereparentorguardianisunabletoexercisecontrol
WheretheCourtissatisfiedthattheparentorguardianofachildisunabletocontrolthechild
theCourtmay,iffurthersatisfied
(a) thatitisexpedientsotodealwiththechild;and.
(b) thattheparentorguardianunderstandstheresultswhichwillfollowfromtheconsents
tomakingoftheorder,
makeacorrectiveorderinrespectofthechildororderthechildtobeplacedforaspecifiedperiod,not
exceedingthreeyears,underthesupervisionofanappropriatesupervisorychilddevelopmentofficeror
ofsomeotherpersonappointedforthepurposebytheCourt.
52. PowerofCourttoorderparent,etc.,tocontributetomaintenance
(1)Whereachildiscommitted
(a) tothecareofanindividualunderthisAct;or
(b) inexceptionalcircumstances,toanapprovedinstitutionoranyotherinstitution,
andtheCourtissatisfiedthattheneedfortheorderarosefromtheneglectonthepartofanyofthe
personsnamedinsubsection(2)ofthissection,theCourtmayorderthatpersontomakesuch
contributiontowardsthemaintenanceofthechildasitmaythinkfit,havingregardtoallthe
circumstancesofthecase,includingthemeansofthepersonorderedtomakethecontribution.
(2)Thepersonsreferredtoinsubsection(1)ofthissectionare
(a) thefather,stepfather,motherorstepmotherofthechild;or
(b) apersonwhoiscohabitingwiththemotherorstepmotherofthechild,whetherornot
heistheputativefatherofthechild;or
(c) thepersoninwhosecareandcustodythechildhasbeenduringthetwoyears
immediatelyprecedingthedateoftheorderorcommittal.
(3)TheCourtshallorderthecontributionofsuchamountperweek,permonthorpereachsuch
periodasitdeemsproperhavingregardtothemeansandearningcapacityofthepersonorderedto
makethecontributionandotherrelevantcircumstances.
(4)Ifapersonfailsorneglectstocomplywithanordermadeundersubsection(1)ofthis
section,theCourtmayforeverybreachoftheorderdirecttheamountduetobeleviedinthemanner,
bylawprovidedforlevyingdistressintheenforcementofdamagesorotherawardsorderedbyacourt
inacivilproceeding.
(5)TheCourtwhichhasthejurisdictionovertheplaceinwhichthepersonorpersonsliableto
makecontributionmay,atanytime,ontheapplicationofthepersonorpersonsorontheapplicationof
anofficeroftheappropriateauthorityorotherauthorisedofficer,andonproofofachangeof
circumstancesinthepersonorpersonssorequiredtomakethecontribution,increaseorreducethe
contributionorrescindanyorderastheCourtmaydeemjust.
PARTVI
CareAndSupervision
53. Careandsupervisionorder,general
(1)TheCourtmay,ontheapplicationofaStateGovernment,anappropriateauthorityorany
otherauthorisedpersonmakea
(a) careorder,placingachildwithrespecttowhomanapplicationismadeinthecareofa
designatedauthorisedperson,appropriateauthorityortheStateGovernment;
(b) supervisionorder,placingachildunderthesupervisionofadesignatedappropriate
authorityorsupervisionofficer.
(2)ACourtmaymakeacareorderorsupervisionorderifitissatisfiedthat
(a) thecaregiventothechild,orlikelytobegiventothechildiftheorderwerenotmade,
isnotwhataparentwouldreasonablybeexpectedtogivetothechild;or
(b) thechildisbeyondparentalcontrol.
(3)Nocareorderorsupervisionordershallbemadewithrespecttoapersonwhohasattained
theageofeighteenyears.
(4)Anapplicationunderthissectionmaybemadeonitsownorinanyotherfamilyproceedings.
(5)TheCourtmay,onanapplication
(a) foracareorder,makeasupervisionorder;
(b) forasupervisionorder,makeacareorder.
(6)Anauthorisedpersonwhoproposestomakeanapplicationunderthissection,shall.
(a) ifitisreasonablypracticabletodoso;and
(b) beforemakingtheapplication,consulttheStateGovernmentortheappropriate
authorityappearingtohimtobetheauthorityinwhosejurisdictionthechildconcerned
isordinarilyresident.
(7)Anapplicationforacareorderorasupervisionordermadebyanauthorisedpersonshallnot
beentertainedbytheCourtif,atthetimewhenitismade,thechildconcernedis
(a) thesubjectofanearlierapplicationforacareorderorsupervisionorder,whichhasnot
beendisposedof;or
(b) subjecttoacareorderorsupervisionorder.
(8)TheStatedesignatedinacareorderorsupervisionordershall
(a) betheStateinwhichthechildisordinarilyresident;or
(b) wherethechilddoesnotresideintheState,betheStateinwhichanycircumstances
aroseinconsequenceofwhichtheorderisbeingmade.
(9)Wherethequestionastowhetherharmsufferedbyachildissignificantturnsonthechilds
healthordevelopment,hishealthordevelopmentshallbecomparedwiththatwhichcouldreasonably
beexpectedofachildofsimilarcircumstances.
54. PeriodwithinwhichapplicationfororderunderthisPartmustbedisposedof
(1)AcourtbeforewhichanapplicationforaorderisbroughtunderthisPartofthisActshall,in
considerationofanyrulesmadepursuanttosubsection(2)ofthissection
(a) drawupatimetablewithaviewtodisposingoftheapplicationwithoutdelay;and
(b) givesuchdirectionsasitconsidersappropriateforthepurposeofensuring,sofarasis
reasonablypracticable,thatthetimetableisadheredto.
(2)TheCourtmaybyrules
(a) specifytheperiodwithinwhichspecifiedstepsmustbetakeninrelationtothe
proceedings;and
(b) makeotherprovisionswithrespecttotheproceedingsforthepurposeofensuring,so
farasisreasonablypracticable,thattheproceedingsaredisposedofwithoutdelay.
55. Effectofcareorder
(1)Whereacareorderismade,theStateGovernmentandtheappropriateauthoritydesignated
bytheordershallreceivethechildintoitscareandkeepthechildinitscarewhiletheorderremainsin
force.
(2)Where
(a) acareciderhasbeenmadeontheapplicationofanauthorisedperson;and
(b) theStateGovernmentorappropriateauthoritydesignatedbytheorderwasnot
informedoftheapplication,thechildmaybekeptinthecareofthatpersonuntil
receivedintothecareoftheStateGovernmentortheappropriateauthority.
(3)Whileacareorderisinforce,theStateGovernmentorappropriateauthoritydesignatedby
theordershallhave
(a) parentalresponsibilityforthechild,subjecttoanyright,duty,power,responsibilityor
authoritywhichaparentorguardianofthechildhasinrelationtothechildandhis
propertybyvirtueofanyotherenactment;and
(b) thepower,subjecttothefollowingprovisionsofthissection,todeterminetheextentto
whichaparentorguardianofthechildmaymeethisparentalresponsibilityforthe
child.
(4)TheStateGovernmentorappropriateauthorityshallnotexercisepowerinsubsection(3)(b)
ofthissectionunlessitissatisfiedthatitisnecessarytodosoinordertosafeguardorpromotethe
welfareofthechild.
(5)Nothinginsubsection(3)(b)ofthissectionshallpreventaparentorguardianofthechild
whohascareofthechildfromdoingwhatisreasonableinallthecircumstancesofthecaseforthe
purposeofsafeguardingorpromotingthewelfareofthechild.
(6)Whileacareorderisinforcewithrespecttoachild,theStateGovernmentorthe
appropriateauthoritydesignatedbytheordershallnot
(a) causethechildtobebroughtupinanyreligiouspersuasion,otherthanthatinwhichhe
wouldhavebeenbroughtupiftheorderhadnotbeenmade;or
(b) havetherightto
(i) consentorwithholdconsenttothemakingofanapplicationwithrespecttothe
childundertheadoptionprovisionsofthisAct;or
(ii) appointaguardianforthechild.
(7)Whileacareorderisinforcewithrespecttoachild,nopersonshall
(a) causethechildtobeknownbyanewsurname;or
(b) removethechildfromtheStateofjurisdiction,withouteitherthewrittenconsentof
everypersonwhohasparentalresponsibilityforthechildortheleaveoftheCourt.
(8)Subsection(7)(b)ofthissectionshallnot
(a) preventtheremovalofachildfromthestateofjurisdiction,foraperiodoflessthan
onemonth,bytheauthorityinwhosecareheis;or
(b) applytoarrangementsforachildtoliveoutsidetheState,iftherequiredwritten
consentortheleaveoftheCourthasbeenobtained.
(9)Themakingofacareorderwithrespecttoachildwhoissubjecttoacontactorder,a
prohibitedstepsorder,aresidenceorderoraspecificissueorder,dischargesthecontactorder,the
prohibitedstepsorder,theresidenceorderorthespecificissueorder.
(10)Themakingofacareorderwithrespecttoachildwhois
(a) thesubjectofasupervisionorder,dischargesthesupervisionorder;
(b) awardofcourt,bringsthatwardshiptoanend;and.
(c) thesubjectofaschoolattendanceorder,dischargestheschoolattendanceorder.
(11)Whereanemergencyprotectionorderismadewithrespecttoachildwhoisincare,the
careordershallhaveeffectsubjecttotheemergencyprotectionorder.
(12)Anyordermadeundersection69or84ofthisActshallcontinueinforceuntilthechild
attainstheageofeighteenyears,unlessitisbroughttoanendearlier,
(13)An
(a) agreementundersection70ofthisAct;and
(b) appointmentundersection84(3)of(4)ofthisAct,
shallcontinueinforceuntilthechildattainstheageofeighteen,unlessitisbroughttoanendearlier.
(14)TheprovisionsofFirstScheduletothisActshallhaveeffectwithrespecttofinancialrelief
forchildren.
[FirstSchedule.]
(15)SubjecttothisAct,anordermadeunderthissectionshall,ifitwouldotherwisecontinuein
force,ceasetohaveeffectwhenthechildattainstheageofeighteenyears.
(16)Whereanorderunderthissectionhaseffectwithrespecttoachildwhohasattainedthe
ageofsixteen,itshall,ifitwouldotherwisecontinueinforce,ceasetohaveeffectwhenthechild
attainstheageofeighteenyears.
(17)Acareorder,otherthananinterimcareorder,shallcontinueinforceuntilthechildattains
theageofeighteenyears,unlessitisbroughttoanendearlier.
(18)AnordermadeunderanyotherprovisionsofthisActinrelationtoachildshall,ifitwould
otherwisecontinueinforce,ceasetohaveeffectwhenheattainstheageofeighteenyears.
(19)Whereanapplication(inthissectionreferredtoasthepreviousapplication)hasbeen
madefor
(a) thedischargeofacareorder;
(b) thedischargeofasupervisionorder;
(c) thedischargeofaneducationsupervisionorder;or
(d) thesubstitutionofasupervisionorderforacareorder;or
(e) achildassessmentorder,
nofurtherapplicationofakindmentionedinparagraphs(a)to(e)ofthissubsectionmaybemadewith
respecttothechildconcerned,withoutleaveoftheCourt,unlesstheperiodbetweenthedisposalof
thepreviousapplicationandthemakingofthefurtherapplicationexceedssixmonths.
(20)Subsection(19)ofthissectiondoesnotapplytoapplicationsmadeinrelationtointerim
orders.
(21)Where
(a) anapplicationmadeforanorderundersection58ofthisActhasbeenrefused;and,
(b) aperiodoflessthansixmonthshaselapsedsincetherefusal,
thepersonwhomadetheapplicationshallnotmakeafurtherapplicationforsuchanorderwithrespect
tothesamechild,unlesshehasobtainedtheleaveoftheCourt.
(22)OndisposingofanapplicationforanorderunderthisAct,theCourtmay,whetherornotit
makesanyotherorderinresponsetotheapplication,orderthatnoapplicationforanorderunderthis
Actofanyspecifiedkindmaybemadewithrespecttothechildconcernedbyanypersonnamedinthe
orderwithoutleaveoftheCourt.
56. Parentalcontacts,etc.,withchildrenincare
(1)AStateGovernmentoranappropriateauthority,shall,subjecttotheprovisionsofthis
section,allowachildunderitscare,reasonablecontactwith
(a) theparentsofthechild;
(b) theguardianofthechild;
(c) apersoninwhosefavouraresidenceorderwaspreviouslymadeimmediatelybeforea
careorderwasmade;and
(d) apersonwho,immediatelybeforethecareorderwasmade,hadcareofthechildby
virtueofanordermadebytheCourt.
(2)OnanapplicationmadebytheStateGovernment,appropriateauthorityorthechild,the
Courtmaymakesuchorderasitconsidersappropriatewithrespecttothecontactwhichistobe
allowedbetweenthechildandanamedperson.
(3)Onanapplicationmadeby
(a) apersonmentionedinparagraphs(a)to(d)ofsubsection(1)ofthissection;or
(b) apersonwhohasobtainedleaveoftheCourttomaketheapplication,theCourtmay
makesuchorderasitconsidersappropriatewithrespecttothecontactwhichistobe
allowedbetweenthechildandthatperson.
(4)OnanapplicationmadebytheStateGovernmentortheappropriateauthoritywithrespect
tothechild,theCourtmaymakeanorderauthorisingtheStateGovernmentortheappropriate
authoritytorefusetoallowcontactbetweenthechildandapersonwhoismentionedinparagraphs(a)
to(d)ofsubsection(1)ofthissectionandnamedintheorder.
(5)Whenmakingacareorder,orinanyfamilyproceedinginconnectionwithachildwhoisin
thecareofaStateGovernment,thecourtmaymakeanorderunderthissection,notwithstandingthat
noapplicationfortheorderhasbeenmadewithrespecttothechild,ifitconsidersthattheorder
shouldbemade.
(6)ThestateGovernmentorappropriateauthoritymayrefusetoallowthecontactthatwould
otherwiseberequiredbyvirtueofSubsection(1)ofthissectionoranordermadeunderthissectionif
and
(a) itissatisfiedthatitisnecessarytodosoinordertosafeguardorpromotethewelfare
ofthechild;
(b) therefusal
(i) isdecidedonasamatterofurgency,and
(ii) doesnotlastformoresevendays.
(7)AnordermadeunderthissectionmayimposesuchconditionsastheCourtconsiders
appropriate.
(8)TheCourtmayvaryordischargeanordermadeunderthissectionontheapplicationofthe
StateGovernmentorappropriateauthority,thechildconcernedorthepersonnamedintheorder.
(9)Anorderunderthissectionmaybemadeatthesametimeasthecareorderitselforlater.
(10)TheCourtshall,beforemakingacareorder
(a) considerthearrangementwhichtheStateGovernmentorappropriateauthorityhas
made,orproposestomake,foraffordingapersoncontactwithachildtowhomthis
sectionapplies;and
(b) invitemepartiestomeproceedingstocommentonthearrangement
(11)TheMinistermaybyregulationsmakeprovisionsasto

(a) thestepstobetakenbyaStateGovernmentoranappropriateauthoritythathas
exerciseditspowersundersubsection(6)ofthissection;
(b) thecircumstancesinwhichandconditionssubjecttowhich,thetermsandconditionsof
anordermadeunderthissectionmaybedepartedfrombyagreementbetweenthe
appropriateauthorityandthepersoninrelationtowhomtheorderismade;and
(c) notificationbyaStateGovernmentoranappropriateauthorityofanyvariationor
suspensionofarrangementsmade,otherwisethanunderthissection,withaviewto
affordingapersoncontactwithachildtowhomthissectionapplies
57. Dutyofsupervisorswhilesupervisionordersareinforce
(1)Whileasupervisionorderisinforcethesupervisorshall
(a) advise,assistandbefriendthesupervisedchild;
(b) takesuchstepsasarereasonablynecessarytogiveeffecttotheorder;and
(c) where
(i) theorderisnotwhollycompliedwith,or
(ii) thesupervisorconsidersthattheordermaynolongerbenecessary,consider
whetherornottoapplytotheCourtforitsvariationordischarge.
(2)ThesupplementaryprovisionssetoutinPartsIandIIoftheSecondScheduletothisAct
shallapplywithrespecttosupervisionorders.
[SecondSchedule.]
58. Educationsupervisionorders
(1)Ontheapplicationofanappropriateeducationauthority,thecourtmaymakeanordertobe
knownasaneducationsupervisionorderputtingthechildwithrespecttowhomtheapplicationismade
underthesupervisionofadesignateappropriateeducationauthority.
(2)TheCourtshallonlymakeineducationsupervisionorderifitissatisfiedthatthechild
concernedisofcompulsoryschoolageandisnotbeingproperlyeducated.
(3)Forthepurposesofthissection,achildisbeingproperlyeducatedonlyifheisreceiving
efficientfulltimeeducationsuitabletohisage,abilityandaptitudeandanyspecialeducationalneeds
hemayhave.
(4)Whereachildis
(a) thesubjectofaschoolattendanceorderwhichisinforceandwhichhasnotbeen
compliedwith;or
(b) aregisteredpupilataschoolwhichheisnotattendingregularly,
itshallbeassumedthatheisnotbeingproperlyeducatedunlessthecontraryisproved,
(5)Aneducationsupervisionordermaybemadewithrespecttoachildwhoisinthecareofa
StateGovernmentifthecourtdeemsitnecessaryintheinterestofthechild.
(6)Theappropriateeducationauthoritydesignatedinaneducationsupervisingordershallbe
(a) theauthoritywithinwhoseareathechildconcernedislivingorwilllive;or
(b) theauthoritywithinwhoseareaaschoolissituatedif
(i) thechildisaregisteredpupilatthatschool;and
(ii) theauthoritymentionedinparagraph(a)ofthissubsectionandtheauthority
withinwhoseareatheschoolissituatedagree.
(7)Anappropriateeducationauthoritywhichproposestomakeanapplicationforaneducation
supervisionordershall,beforemakingtheapplication,consultthechildservicescommitteeorunitof
theappropriateauthority.
(8)ThesupplementaryprovisionssetoutinPartIIIoftheSecondScheduletothisActshallapply
withrespecttoeducationsupervisionorders.
[SecondSchedule.]
59. PowerofCourtinproceedingswherequestionofwelfareofchildarises
(1)Where,itappearstotheCourtinproceedingsinwhichaquestionarisesastothewelfareof
achild,thatitmaybeappropriateforacareorsupervisionordertobemadewithrespecttothatchild,
theCourtmaydirecttheappropriateauthoritytoundertakeaninvestigationofthechilds
circumstances.
(2)WheretheCourtgivesadirectionunderthissection,theappropriateauthorityconcerned
shall,whenundertakingtheinvestigation,considerwhetheritshould
(a) applyforacareorderorasupervisionorderwithrespecttothechild;or
(b) provideservicesasassistanceforthechildandhisfamily;or
(c) takeanyotheractionwithrespecttothechild.
(3)Wheretheappropriateauthorityundertakesaninvestigationunderthissectionanddecides
nottoapplyforacareorderorsupervisionorderwithrespecttothechildconcerned,theappropriate
authorityshallinformtheCourtof
(a) itsreasonsforsodeciding;
(b) anyserviceorassistancewhichithasprovided,orintendstoprovide,forthechildand
hisfamily;and
(c) anyotheractionwhichithastakenorproposestotake,withrespecttothechild.
(4)Theinformationreferredtoinsubsection(3)ofthissectionshallbegiventotheCourtbefore
theendoftheperiodofeightweeks,beginningwiththedateofthedirection,unlesstheCourt
otherwisedirects.
(5)If,ontheconclusionofaninvestigationorreviewunderthissection,theappropriate
authoritydecidesnottoapplyforacareorderorsupervisionorderwithrespecttothechild,the
appropriateauthorityshallconsiderwhetheritwouldbeappropriatetoreviewthecaseatalaterdate.
(6)Iftheappropriateauthority,decidesthatitwouldreviewthecasepursuanttosubsection(5)
ofthissection,itshalldeterminethedateobwhichthatreviewistobegin.
(7)Inthissection,theappropriateauthority,means
(a) theauthorityinwhoseStatethechildisordinarilyresident;or
(b) wherethechilddoesnotresideintheState,theauthoritywithinwhoseStateany
circumstancesaroseinconsequenceofwhichthedirectionisbeinggiven
60. Interimorders
(1)Where
(a) inanyproceedingonanapplicationforacareorsupervisionorder,theproceedingis
adjourned;or
(b) theCourtgivesadirectionundersection59(1)ofthisAct,theCourtmaymakean
interimcareorder,oraninterimsupervisionorderwithrespecttothechildconcerned.
(2)TheCourtshallnotmakeaninterimcareorderorinterimsupervisionorderunderthis
sectionunlessitissatisfiedthattherearereasonablegroundsforbelievingthatthecircumstanceswith
respecttothechildareasmentionedinSection53(2)ofthisAct.
(3)Where,inanyproceedingonanapplicationforacareorderorsupervisionorder,theCourt
makesaresidenceorderwithrespecttothechildconcerned,itshallalsomakeaninterimsupervision
orderwithrespecttothechildunlessitissatisfiedthatthewelfareofthechildwillbesatisfactorily
safeguardwithoutaninterimsupervisionorderbeingmade.
(4)Aninterimordermadeunderorbyvirtueofthissectionshallhaveeffectforsuchperiodas
maybespecifiedintheorder,butshallceasetohaveeffectonwhicheverofthefollowingeventsfirst
occurs
(a) theexpiryoftheperiodoftenweeksbeginningwiththedateonwhichtheorderis
made;
(b) iftheorderisthesecondorissubsequenttoanordermadewithrespecttothesame
childinthesameproceedings,theexpiryoftherelevantperiod;
(c) inacasewhichfallswithinsubsection(1)(a)ofthissection,thedisposalofan
application;
(d) inacasewhichfallswithinsubsection(1)(b)ofthissection,thedisposalofan
applicationforacareorderorsupervisionordermadebytheappropriateauthoritywith
respecttothechild;
(e) inacasewhichfallswithinsubsection(1)(b)ofthissectionandinwhichthecourthas
givenadirectionundersection62(1)ofthisAct,butnoapplicationforacareorderor
supervisionorderhasbeenmadewithrespecttothechild,theexpiryoftheperiodfixed
bythatdirection.
(5)WheretheCourtmakesaninterimcareorderorinterimsupervisionorder,itmaygivesuch
directions,ifany,asitconsidersappropriatewithregardtothemedicalexamination,including
psychiatricexamination,orotherassessmentofthechild,butifthechildhassufficientunderstandingto
makeaninformaldecisionhemayrefusetosubmittotheexaminationorotherassessment.
(6)Adirectionundersubsection(5)ofthissectionmayprovidethatthereshallbe
(a) noexaminationorassessment;or
(b) noexaminationorassessmentunlesstheCourtdirectsotherwise.
(7)Adirectionundersubsection(5)ofthissectionmaybe
(a) givenwhentheinterimcareorderorinterimsupervisionorderismadeoratanytime
whileitisinforce;and
(b) variedatanytimeontheapplicationofanypersonfallingwithinanyclassofpersons
prescribedbyRulesorCourtforthepurposesorthissubsection.
(8)WheretheCourtmakesanorderunderorbyvirtueofthissectionitshall,indeterminingthe
periodforwhichtheorderistobeinforce,considerwhetheranypartywhowas,ormighthavebeen
opposedtothemakingoftheorderwasinapositiontoarguehiscaseagainsttheorderinfull.
(9)Theprovisionssetoutinparagraphs4and5oftheSecondScheduletothisActshallnot
applyinrelationtoaninterimsupervisionorder.
61. Dischargeandvariation,etc.,ofcareordersandsupervisionorders
(1)TheCourtmayvaryordischargeacareorderontheapplicationof
(a) apersonwhohasparentalresponsibilityforthechild;or
(b) thechildhimself;or
(c) ThestateGovernmentorappropriateauthoritydesignatedbytheorder.
(2)TheCourtmayvaryordischargeasupervisionorderontheapplicationof
(a) apersonwhohasparentalresponsibilityforthechild;
(b) thechildhimself;or
(c) thesupervisor.
(3)Ontheapplicationofapersonwhoisnotentitledtoapplyfortheordertobedischarged,
butwhoisapersonwithwhomthechildisliving,theCourtmayvaryasupervisionorderinsofarasit
imposesarequirementwhichaffectsthatperson.
(4)Whereacareorderisinforce,theCourtmay,ontheapplicationofanypersonentitledto
applyfortheordertobedischarged,substituteasupervisionorderforthecareorder.
(5)WhentheCourtisconsideringwhethertosubstituteoneorderforanotherundersubsection
4)ofthissection,anyprovisionofthisActwhichwouldotherwiserequiresection52(2)ofthisActtobe
satisfied,atthetimewhenproposedorderissubstitutedormade,shallbedisregarded.
(6)Themakingofaresidenceorderwithrespecttoachildwhoisthesubjectofacareorder
dischargesthecareorder.
62. Orderspendingappealsincasesrelatingtocareorsupervisionorders
(1)WheretheCourtdismissesanapplicationforacareorderinrespectofachildwhoisalsothe
subjectofaninterimcareorder,theCourtmaymakeacareorderwithrespecttothechildtohave
effectsubjecttosuchdirections,ifany,astheCourtmaydeemfittoincludeintheorder.
(2)Wherethecourtdismissesanapplicationforacareorderorsupervisionorderinrespectofa
childwhoisalsothesubjectofaninterimsupervisionorder,theCourtmaymakeasupervisionorder
withrespecttotheChildtohaveeffectsubjecttosuchdirections,ifany,asthecourtmaydeemfitto
includeintheorder.
(3)WhereaCourtgrantsanapplicationtodischargeacareorderorsupervisionorder,itmay
orderthat
(a) Itsdecisionisnottohaveeffect;or
(b) thecareorderorsupervisionorderistocontinuetohaveeffectsubjecttosuch
directionsastheCourtmaydeemfittoincludeintheorder.
(4)AnOrdermadeunderthissectionshallonlyhaveeffectforsuchperiod,notexceedingthe
appealperiod,asmaybespecifiedintheorder.
(5)Where
(a) anappealismadeagainstanydecisionofaCourtunderthissection;or
(b) anapplicationismadetotheappellateCourtinconnectionwithaproposedappeal
againstthatdecision,
theappellateCourtmayextendtheperiodforwhichtheorderinquestionistohaveeffect,butnotso
astoextendItbeyondtheendoftheappealperiod.
(6)Forthepurposesofthissection.theappealperiodincludes
(a) theperiodbetweenthemakingofthedecisionagainstwhichtheappealismadeand
thedeterminationoftheappeal;and
(b) theperiodduringwhichanappealmaybemadeagainstthedecision.
PARTVII
ProvisionsforuseofScientificTestsinDeterminingPaternityorMaternity,etc
63. PowerofCourttorequireuseofscientifictests
(1)Inanycivilproceedinginwhichthepaternityormaternityofapersonfallstobedetermined
bytheCourthearingtheproceedings,theCourtmay,onanapplicationbyapartytotheproceedings,
giveadirectionfor
(a) theuseofscientifictests,includingbloodtestsandDeoxyribonucleicAcidtests,to
ascertainwhetherthetestsshowthatapartytotheproceedingsisorisnotthefather
ormotherofthatperson:and
(b) forthetaking,withinaperiodtobespecifiedinthedirection,ofbloodorothersamples
fromthatperson,themotherofthatperson,thefatherofthatpersonandanyparty
allegedtobethefatherormotherofthatpersonorfromanytwoofthosepersons.
(2)TheCourtmayatanytimerevokeorvaryadirectionpreviouslygivenbyitundersubsection
(1)ofthissection.
(3)Where
(a) anapplicationismadeforadirectionunderthissection;and
(b) thepersonwhosepaternityormaternityisinissueisundertheageofeighteenwhen
theapplicationismade,theapplicationshallspecifywhoistocarryoutthetests.
(4)Inthecaseofadirectionmadeonanapplicationtowhichsubsection(3)ofthissection
appliestheCourt.
(a) shallspecifythatthepersonwhoistocarryoutthetestisthepersonspecifiedinthe
application;or
(b) may,wheretheCourtconsidersthatitwouldbeinappropriatetospecifytheperson
referredtoinparagraph(a)ofthissubsection,becausespecifyingthatpersonwouldbe
contrarytoanyprovisionofregulationsmadeundersection65ofthisActorforany
otherreason,declinetogivethedirectionappliedfor.
(5)Thepersonresponsibleforcarryingoutbloodteststakenforthepurposeofgivingeffecttoa
directionunderthissectionshallmake,totheCourtwhichgavethedirection,areportinwhichheshall
state
(a) theresultofthetests;
(b) whetherthepartytowhomthereportrelatesisorisnotindicatedbytheresultsasthe
fatherormotherofthepersonwhosepaternityormaternity,asthecasemaybe,isto
bedetermined;and
(c) ifthepartyissoindicated,thevalue,ifany,oftheresultsindeterminingwhetherthat
partyisactuallythefatherormotherofthatperson.
(6)Thereportmadeundersubsection(5)ofthissectionshallbe
(a) receivedbytheCourtasevidenceintheproceedingsofthemattersstatedinthereport
;and
(b) intheformprescribedbyregulationsmadeundersection65ofthisAct.
(7)WhereareporthasbeenmadetotheCourtundersubsection(5)ofthissection,anypartyto
theproceedingsmay,withtheleaveoftheCourt,orshall,iftheCourtsodirects,obtainfromtheperson
whomadethereportawrittenstatementexplainingoramplifyinganystatementmadeinthereport,
andthatstatementshallbedeemedforthepurposesofthissection,exceptsubsection(5)(b)ofthis
section,toformpartofthereportmadetotheCourt.
(8)Whereadirectionisgivenunderthissectioninanyproceedings,apartytotheproceedings,
shallnot,unlesstheCourtotherwisedirects,beentitledtocallasawitness
(a) thepersonwhocarriedouttheteststakenforthepurposeofgivingeffecttothe
direction;or
(b) anypersonwhodidanythingnecessaryforthepurposeofenablingthoseteststobe
carriedout,unlesswithinfourteendaysafterreceivingacopyofthereportthatparty
servesnoticeontheotherpartiestotheproceedingsoronsuchofthoseotherparties
astheCourtmaydirect,ofhisintentiontocallthatperson,andwhereapersoniscalled
asawitnessthepartywhocalledthepersonshallbeentitledtocrossexaminethat
person.
(9)Whereadirectionisgivenunderthissection,thepartyonwhoseapplicationthedirectionis
givenshallpaythecostoftakingandtestingbloodorothersamplesforthepurposeofgivingeffectto
thedirection,includinganyexpensesreasonablyincurredbyanyperson
(a) intakinganysteprequiredofthepersonforthepurpose;and.
(b) inmakingareporttotheCourtunderthissection,buttheamountpaidshallbetreated
ascostsincurredbythepartyintheproceedings.
64. Consents,etc.,requiredfortakingscientificsamples
(1)Subjecttotheprovisionsofsubsection(3)and(4)ofthissection,scientificsamplewhichis
requiredtobetakenfromanypersonforthepurposeofgivingeffecttoadirectionundersection63of
thisActshallnotbetakenfromthatpersonexceptwithhisconsent.
(2)Theconsentofachildwhohasattainedtheageofsixteenyearstothetakingfromhimselfof
ascientificsampleshallbeaseffectiveasitwouldbeifhehadattainedtheageofmajorityandwherea
childhasbyavirtueofthissubsectiongivenaneffectiveconsenttothetakingofscientificsample,it
shallnotbenecessarytoobtainanyconsentforitfromanyotherperson.
(3)Ascientificsamplemaybetakenfromachildundertheageofsixteenyears,notbeinga
childasisreferredtoinsubsection(4)ofthissection,ifthepersonwhohadthecareandcontrolofthe
childconsents.
(4)Ascientificsamplemaybetakenfromachildwho
(a) issufferingfrommentaldisorderwithinthemeaningofanyrelevantlawinNigeria;and
(b) isincapableofunderstandingthenatureandpurposeofthescientifictests,ifthe
personwhohasthecareandcontrolofthechildconsentsandthemedicalpractitioner
inwhosecareheishascertifiedthatthetakingofthescientificsamplefromthechild
shallnotbeprejudicialtohispropercareandtreatment.
(5)Theprovisionsofthissectionarewithoutprejudicetotheprovisionsofsection66ofthisAct.
65. PowerofMinistertoprovideformannerofgivingeffecttodirectionsforuseofscientifictests
TheMinistermaybyregulationsmakeprovisionsastothemannerofgivingeffecttodirections
givenundersection63ofthisActand,inparticular,theregulationsmay
(a) providethatscientificsamplesshallnotbetakenexceptbysuchmedicalpractitionersas
maybeappointedbytheMinister;
(b) regulatethetaking,identificationandtransportingofthescientificsamples;.
c) requiretheproduction,atthetimewhenascientificsampleistobetaken,ofsuch
evidenceastotheidentityofthepersonfromwhomitistobetakenasmaybe
prescribedbytheregulations;
(d) requireanypersonfromwhomascientificsampleistobetaken,or,insuchcasesas
maybeprescribedbytheregulations,suchotherpersonasmaybesoprescribed,to
stateinwritingwhetherheorthepersonfromwhomthesampleistobetaken,asthe
casemaybe,hasduringsuchperiodasmaybespecifiedintheregulations,suffered
fromanysuchillnessasmaybesospecifiedorreceivedatransfusionofblood;
(e) providethatscientifictestsshallnotbecarriedoutexceptbysuchpersons,andatsuch
places,asmaybeappointedbytheMinister;
(f) prescribethescientifictesttobecarriedoutandthemannerinwhichtheyaretobe
carriedout;
(g) regulatethechargesthatmaybemadeforthetakingandtestingofthescientific
samplesandforthemakingofareporttoaCourtundersection63ofthisAct;
(h) makeprovisionforsecuringthat,sofaraspracticablethesamplestobetestedforthe
purposeofgivingeffecttoadirectionunderSection63ofthisActaretestedbythe
sameperson;
(i) prescribetheformofthereporttobemadetoaCourtundersection63ofthisAct.
66. Failuretocomplywithdirectionsfortakingofscientifictests
(1)WheretheCourtgivesadirectionundersection63ofthisActandapersonfailstotakeany
steprequiredofhimforthepurposeofgivingeffecttothedirection,theCourtmaydrawsuch
inferences,ifany,fromthatfactsasappearproperinthecircumstances.
(2)Where,inanyproceedingsinwhichthepaternityormaternityofachildfallslobe
determinedbytheCourthearingtheproceedings,thereisapresumptionoflawthatthepersonis
legitimatethenif
(a) adirectionisgivenundersection63orthisActinthoseproceedings;and
(b) apartywhoisclaiminganyreliefintheproceedingsandwhoforthepurposeof
obtainingthatreliefisentitledtorelyonthepresumptionfailslolakeanysteprequired
ofhimforthepurposeofgivingeffecttothedirection,theCourtmayadjournthe
hearingforsuchperiodasitthinksfittoenablethatpartytotakethesteprequired.
(3)Ifattheendoftheperiodreferredtoinsubsection(2)ofthissection,thepersonfails
withoutreasonablecausetotakethesteprequired,theCourtmay,withoutprejudicetosubsection(1)
ofthissection,dismisshisclaimforreliefnotwithstandingtheabsenceofevidencetorebutthe
presumption.
(4)Whereapersonnamedinadirectionundersection63ofthisActfailstoconsenttothe
takingofscientificsamplefromhimselforfromachildnamedinthedirectionofwhomhehasthecare
andcontrol,thepersonshallbedeemedforthepurposesofthissectiontohavefailedtotakeastep
requiredofhimforthepurposeofgivingeffecttothedirection.
67. Penaltyforimpersonatinganother,etc.,forpurposeofprovidingscientificsample
If,forthepurposeofprovidingscientificsampleforatestrequiredtogiveeffecttoadirection
undersection63ofthisAct,apersonimpersonatesanother,orproffersachildknowingthatitisnotthe
childnamedinthedirection,thatpersoncommitsanoffenceandisliableonconvictiontoafinenot
exceedingtenthousandNairaorimprisonmentforatermnotexceedingoneyearortobothsuchline
andimprisonment.
PARTVIII
PossessionandCustodyofChildren
68. Acquisitionofparentalresponsibilities
(1)Wherethefatherandmotherofachildwerenotmarriedtoeachotheratthetimeofthe
birthofthechild
(a) theFamilyCourtestablishedundersection153ofthisActmay
(i) ontheapplicationofthefather,orderthatheshallhaveparentalresponsibility
forthechild;or
(ii) ontheapplicationofthemother,orderthatsheshallhaveparental
responsibilityforthechild;or
(b) thefatherandmothermaybyagreementhavejointparentalresponsibilityforthechild.
(2)NoparentalresponsibilityagreementshallhaveeffectforthepurposesofthisAct,unlessit
ismadeintheformandmannerprescribedbyregulationsmadebytheChiefJusticeofNigeriaunder
thissection.
(3)Subjecttosubsection(4)ofthissection,anorderunderSubsection(1)(a)ofthissection,ora
parentalresponsibilityagreement,mayonlybebroughttoanendbyanorderoftheCourtmadeonthe
application
(a)ofapersonwhohasparentalresponsibilityforthechild;or
(b)ofthechildhimself,withleaveoftheCourt.
(4)TheCourtmayonlygrantleaveunderSubsection(3)(b)ofthissectionifitissatisfiedthat
thechildhassufficientunderstandingtomaketheproposedapplication.
(5)Wherethecourtmakesaresidenceorderinfavourofthefatherorthemotherofachildit
shall,ifthefatherormotherwouldnototherwisehaveparentalresponsibilityforthechild,alsomake
anorderundersubsection(i)ofthissectiongivingthefatherormotherthatresponsibility.
(6)WheretheCourtmakesaresidenceorderinfavourofapersonwhoisnottheparentor
guardianofthechildconcerned,thepersonshallhaveparentalresponsibilityforthechildwhilethe
residenceorderremainsinforce.
(7)Whereapersonhasparentalresponsibilityforachildasaresultofsubsection(5)ofthis
section,heshallnothavetherightto
(a) refusetoconsent,tothemakingofan,applicationinrespectofthechildunderPartXII
ofthisActor,
(b) agree,orrefusetoagreetothemakingofanadoptionorder,oranyotherorderunder
PartXIIofthisActwithrespectlothechild;or
(c) appointaguardianforthechild.
(8)Wheresubsection(5)ofthissectionrequirestheCourttomakeanorderundersubsection
(1)ofthissectioninrespectofthefatherormotherofachild;thecourtshallnotbringthatordertoan
endatanytimewhiletheresidenceorderconcernedremainsinforce
(9)Thefactthatapersonhas,ordoesnothaveparentalresponsibilityforachildshallnotaffect
(a) anyobligationwhichhemayhaveinrelationtothechildincludingastatutorydutyto
maintain,thechild;or
(b) anyrightwhich,intheeventofthedeathofthechild,heoranyotherpersonmayhave
inrelationtothepropertyofthechild.
(10)Apersonwhodoesnothaveparentalresponsibilityforaparticularchildbuthascareofthe
childmay,subjecttotheprovisionsofthisAct,dowhatisreasonableinallthecircumstancesofthecase
forthepurposeofsafeguardingorpromotingthewelfareofthechild.
69. PoweroftheCourttomakeorderinrespecttocustodyorrightsofaccesstoachild
(1)TheCourtmay
(a) ontheapplicationofthefatherormotherofachildmakesuchorderasitmaydeemfit
withrespecttothecustodyofthechildandtherightofaccesstothechildofeither
parent,havingregardto
(i) thewelfareofthechildandtheconductoftheparent;and
(ii) thewishesofthemotherandFatherofthechild,
(b) alter,varyordischargeanordermadeunderparagraph(a)ofthissubsectiononthe
applicationof
(i) thefatherormotherofthechild,or
(ii) theguardianofthechild,afterthedeathoftheratherormotherofthechild;
and
(c) ineverycase,makesuchorderwithrespecttocostsasitmaythinkjust.
(2)ThepoweroftheCourtundersubsection(1)ofthissectiontomakeanorderastothe
custodyorachildandtherightofaccesstothechildmaybeexercisednotwithstandingthatthemother
ofthechildisatthattimenotresidingwiththefatherofthechild.
(3)WheretheCourtmakesanorderundersubsection(1)ofthissectiongivingthecustodyof
thechildtothemothertheCourtmayfurtherorderthatthefathershallpaytothemothertowardsthe
maintenanceofthechildsuchweeklyorotherperiodicalsumastheCourt,may,havingregardtothe
meansofthefatherthinkreasonable.
(4)WheretheCourtmakesanorderunderSubsection(1)orthissectiongivingcustodyofchild
tothefathertheCourtmayfurtherorderthatthemothershallpaytothefathertowardsthe
maintenanceofthechildsuchweeklyorotherperiodicalsumastheCourt,may,havingregardtothe
meansofthemotherthinkreasonable.
(5)Subjecttothissection;noorderwhetherforcustodyormaintenanceshallbeenforceable
andnoliabilitythereundershallaccruewhilethemotherofthe,childresideswiththefather,andany
suchordershallceasetohaveeffectifforaperiodofthreemonthsafteritismade,themotherofthe
childcontinuestoresidewiththefather.
(6)Anordermadeunderthissectionmay,ontheapplicationofthefatherormotherofthe
child,bevariedordischargedbyasubsequentorder.
70. Ordersastocustody
Noagreementcontainedinanyseparationdeedmadebetweenthefatherandmotherofachild
shall,beinvalidbyreasononlyofitsprovidingthatthefatherofthechildgivesupthecustodyorcontrol
ofthechildtothemother.
71. Validityofcustodyagreedtoinseparationdeeds
WhereinanyproceedingsbeforeaCourtthecustodyorupbringingofachildorthe
administrationofanypropertybelongingtoorheldintrustforachild,ortheapplicationoftheincome
thereof,isinquestion,theCourtshall,indecidingthatquestion,regardthewelfareorthechildasthe
firstandparamountconsideration
72. Principalonwhichquestionsrelatingtocustody,upbringing,etc.,ofchildistobedecided
Wheretheparentofachildhas
(a) abandonedordesertedthechild;or
(b) allowedthechildtobebroughtupbyanotherpersonattheexpenseofthatother
person,forsuchalengthoftimeandundersuchcircumstancesastosatisfytheCourt
thattheparentwasunmindfulofhisparentalresponsibilities,
theCourtshallnotmakeanorderforthechildtobedeliveredtotheparentunlesstheparentsatisfies
theCourtthat,havingregardtothewelfareofthechild,theparentisafitandproperpersontohave
thecustodyofthechild.
73. Courttohaveregardtoconductofparent
WheretheparentofachildappliestotheCourtforawritoranorderfortheproductionofa
child,andtheCourtisoftheopinionthattheparent
(a) hasabandonedordesertedthechild;or
(b) hadotherwisesoconductedhimselfthattheCourtshouldrefusetoenforcehisrightto
thecustodyofthechild,theCourtmay,initsdiscretion,declinetoissuethewritor
maketheorder.
74. PowerofCourtastoproductionofchild
Ifatthetimeoftheapplicationforawritoranorderfortheproductionofachildthechildis
beingbroughtupbyanotherpeon,theCourtmay,initdiscretion,ifitordersthatthechildbegivenup
totheparent,furtherorderthattheparentpaystothatotherpersonthewholeofthecostsproperly
incurredinbringingupthechild,orsuchportionofthecostsasseemstotheCourttobejustand
reasonable,havingregardtothecircumstancesofthecase.
75. PowerofCourttoconsultchildswishes
Nothingcontainedinsections72,73,and74ofthisActinterfereswith,oraffects,powerofthe
Courttoconsultthewishesofthechildinconsideringwhatorderoughttobemadeundersection74,of
thisActordiminishestherightwhichanychild,hastoexerciseonhisownfreechoice,
76. PowerofCourttochildsreligiouseducation
TheCourtmay,onanapplicationbyapersonfortheproductionorcustodyofachildifitisof
theopinion
(a) thattheparentoughtnottohavethecustodyofthechild;and
(b) thatthechildisbeingbroughtupinadifferentreligionotherthanthatinwhichthe
parenthasbroughtthechildup,
makesuchorderasitmaydeemfittoensurethatchildisbroughtupinthereligioninwhichtheparent
requiresthechildtobebroughtup.
77. Enforcementoforderforpaymentofmoneybyattachmentofincome
WheretheCourtmakesanorderforthepaymentofmoneyinpursuanceofthisAct,theCourt
shall,inadditiontoanyotherpowersforenforcingcompliancewiththeorder,havepower,inanycase
wherepensionorincome,whichiscapableofbeingattached,ispayabletothepersonagainstwhom
theorderismade,aftergivingthepersonbywhomthepensionorincomeispayableanopportunityof
beingheard,orderthatsuchpartofthepensionorincomeasthecourtmaydeemfitbeattachedfor
thepaymentofanymoneyunderthisAct,
78. Noticeofchangeofaddressbypersonorderedtopaymoney
Apersonwhoforthetimebeingisunderanobligationtomakepaymentinpursuanceofan
orderforthepaymentofmoneyunderthisActshallgivenoticeofanychangeinhisaddresstothe
personifanyasmaybespecifiedintheorder.
79. PoweroftheMinistertomakeorders,etc.,astocustodyofchildren
(1)TheMinistermay,byorder,notwithstandinganycustomarylawtothecontraryprohibiting
(a) thegivingoracquiringofthecustody,possession,controlorguardianshipofachild;or
(b) theremovalofachildfromanypartofaState.
(2)WhereanorderismadebytheMinisterinpursuanceofsubsection(i)ofthissection,no
personshallgiveoracquirethecustody,possessionorcontroloforremoveachildfromanypartofthe
StatespecifiedintheorderexceptinaccordancewithrulesmadebytheMinisterandsuchrulesmaybe
ingeneralorinrespectofanyparticularpartofaState.
(3)AnappealfromtheorderoftheMinistershalllietotheappropriateleveloftheCourt.
80. Prohibitionagainstacquiringcustody,etc.,ofchildforthepurposeofdealinginthechild.
(1)Nopersonshallhire,giveoracquirethecustody,Possession,controlorguardianshipofa
childwhetherornotforpecuniaryorotherbenefitincircumstancesthatitmayreasonablybeinferred
thatthechildhasbeenhired,soldorbartered,orthatbyreasonofthehiring,givingoracquiring,the
childmayreasonablybeinferredtobeplacedinanydanger,whatsoever.
(2)InanyprosecutionforthecontraventionofSubsection(i)ofthissection,whereitisproved
thatthecustody,possession,controlorguardianshipofachildhasbeengiventooracquiredbya
personotherthanapersonwhoisamemberofthefamilyofthechild,itshallbepresumedbytheCourt
thatthechildhasbeengivenoracquiredincontraventionoftheprovisionsofSubsection(1)ofthis
section.
(3)Itshallbeadefencetothissectiontoprovethatthechildconcernedwasgivenoracquired
inaccordancewithcustomarylaw,providedthatthecustomarylawisnotrepugnanttonaturaljustice,
moralityorhumanityorinconsistentwithanywrittenlaw
81. Penaltiesforcontraveningsections79and80
ApersonwhocontravenestheprovisionsofSections79and80ofthisActorofanyrulesunder
thosesectionscommitsanoffenceandisliableonconvictiontoafineoftenthousandNairaor
imprisonmentforatermofoneyearortobothsuchfineandimprisonment.
PARTIX
Guardianship
82. Parentalresponsibilityofaguardian
(1)Exceptasprovidedundersection69ofthisAct,apersonappointedaguardianunderthis
PartofthisActshallhaveparentalresponsibilityforthechild.
(2)ApersonappointedasguardianadlitemunderSection90ofthisActshallbeaguardian
onlyforthepurposesofrepresentingthechildandhisinterestincertainproceedings,butshall
otherwisehavenoparentalresponsibilityforthechild.
83. Guardianshipofachild
(1)Theparentsofachildshallhaveguardianshipofthechildand,intheeventofthedeathofa
parent,thesurvivingparentshallbetheguardianofthechild.
(2)Wheretheparentsofachildarenotfittobeguardiansofachildjointlyorseverallythe
Court,shall,onapplicationofamemberofthefamilyoranappropriateauthorityappointapersonto
beajointguardianwiththeparentorparentsofthechild.
(3)Asurvivingparentwhohasguardianshipofachildmay,bydeed,appointaguardianforthe
childintheeventofthedeathofthatparent.
(4)Asingleparentmaybydeed,appointapersontobetheguardianofthechilduponthedeath
ofthatsingleparent.
(5)Whereaguardianisappointedtoactjointlywithaparentorparentsofachildunder
subsection(2)ofthissectionandtheguardiansoappointedconsiderstheparentsunfittohavethe
custodyofthechild,theguardianmayapplytotheCourt,andtheCourtmaymake
(a) anorderthattheguardianbethesoleguardianofthechild;and
(b) suchorderregardingthecustodyandrightofaccessoftheparentstothechildasthe
Courtmaythinkfit,havingregardtothewelfareofthechild.
(6)TheCourtmayunderSubsection(2)ofthissection,orderthataparentorparentsofachild
makeapaymenttoajointguardiantowardsthemaintenanceofthechild.
84. Orderforguardianshipofachild
(1)WhereanapplicationfortheguardianshipofchildismadetotheCourtbyaperson,the
courtmay,byorder,appointthatpersontobetheguardianofachildif
(a) thechildhasnoparentwithparentalresponsibilityforhim;or
(b) aresidenceorderhasbeenmadeinrespecttothechildinfavourofaparentoguardian
ofthechildwhohasdiedwhiletheorderwasinforce.
(2)Thepowerconferredundersubsection(1)ofthissectionmayalsobeexercisedinanyfamily
proceedingsiftheCourtconsidersthattheordershouldbemadenotwithstandingthatnoapplication
wasmadeforit.
(3)Aguardianofachildmay,bydeed,appointanotherpersontobetheguardianofthechildin
theeventofhisdeath.
(4)Anappointmentmadebyawillwhichisnotsignedbythetestator,shallhaveeffectonlyifit
issignedatthedirectionofthetestator.
85. Consentofapersonappointedasaguardian
Theconsentofapersonappointedasaguardianisnecessaryfortheappointmenttohave
effect.
86. Revocationofguardianship
Theappointmentofaguardianundersections85and90ofthisActmaybebroughttoanendat
anytimebyanorderoftheCourt
(a) ontheapplicationofanaturalparentoranypersonwhohasparentalresponsibilityfor
thechild;
(b) ontheapplicationofthechildconcerned,withleaveoftheCourt;
(c) inanyfamilyproceedings,iftheCourtconsidersthatitshouldbebroughttoanend
notwithstandingthatnoapplication,hasbeenmade;or
(d) ontheapplicationofanappropriateauthority.
87. Powerofaguardianoverestateofachild
AguardianunderthisActshallhaveallsuchpowersovertheestate,asthecasemaybe,ofa
childasaguardianappointedbywillorotherwisebyvirtueoftherulesofcommonlaw,equity,or
appropriatepersonallaw.
88. Disputesbetweenjointguardians
Wheretwoormorepersonsactasjointguardiansofachildandtheyareunabletoagreeonany
questionaffectingthewelfareofthechild,anyofthemmayapplytotheCourtforitsdirection,andthe
courtmaymakeanorderregardingthequestionindispute.
89. Appointmentofguardianadlitem
(1)TheCourtmay,forthepurposeofanyspecifiedproceedings,appointaguardianadlitemfor
thechildconcernedtosafeguardtheinterestsofthechild,unlessitissatisfiedthatitisnotnecessary,to
doso.
(2)Theguardianadlitemshall
(a) beappointedinaccordancewiththeRulesofCourt;and
(b) beunderadutytosafeguardtheinterestsofthechildinthemannerprescribedby
thoserules.
(3)Where
(a) thechildconcernedisnotrepresentedbyalegalpractitioner;and
(b) anyoftheconditionsmentionedinSubsection(4)ofthissectionissatisfied,theCourt
mayappointalegalpractitionertorepresentthechild.
(4) TheconditionsunderwhichanappointmentmaybemadeunderSubsection(3)ofthis
sectionarethat
(a) noguardianadlitemhasbeenappointedforthechild;
(b) thechildhassufficientunderstandingtoinstructalegalpractitionerandwishestodo
so;
(c) itappearstotheCourtthatitwouldbeinthebestinterestofthechildforhimtobe
representedbyalegalpractitioner.
(5)Alegalpractitionerappointedunderorbyvirtueofthissectionshallrepresentthechildin
accordancewiththeRulesofCourt.
(6)Notwithstandinganyenactmentorrulesoflawtothecontrary,theCourtmaytakeaccount
of
(a) anystatementcontainedinareportmadebyaguardianadlitemwhoisappointed
underthissectionforthepurposeoftheproceedingsinquestion;and
(b) anyevidencegiveninrespectofthemattersreferredtointhereport,insofarasthe
statementorevidenceis,intheopinionoftheCourt,relevanttothequestionwhich
theCourtisconsidering.
90. Establishmentofpanelsofpersonsfromwhichguardiansadlitemmaybeappointed
(1)TheMinistermybyregulationsprovidefortheestablishmentofpanelsofpersonsfrom
whichguardiansadlitemappointedunderthissectionshallbeselected.
(2)Theregulationsmay,inparticular,makeprovisions
(a) astotheconstitution,administrationandproceduresofthepanels;
(b) requiringtwoormorespecifiedLocalGovernmentstomakearrangementsforthejoint
managementofapanel;
(c) forthedefraymentbytheStateGovernmentofexpensesincurredbymembersof
panels;
(d) forthepaymentbytheStateGovernmentoffeesandallowancestomembersofpanels;
(e) astothequalificationsformembershipofapanel;
(f) astothetrainingtobegiventomembersofthepanels;
(g) astothecooperationrequiredofspecifiedLocalGovernmentsintheprovisionof
panelsinspecifiedareas;and
(h) formonitoringtheworkofguardiansadlitem.
(3)RulesofCourtmaymakeprovisionsastothe
(a) assistancewhichaguardianadlitemmayberequiredbytheCourttogivetoit;
(b) considerationtobegivenbyaguardianadlitem,whereanorderofaspecifiedkindhas
beenmadeintheproceedingsinquestion,astowhethertoapplyforthevariationor
dischargeoftheorder;
(c) participationofguardiansadliteminanyreview,ofthekindspecifiedintheRulesof
court,conductedbytheCourt.
91. Rightofguardianadlitemtohaveaccesstorecords
(1)WhereapersonhasbeenappointedasaguardianadlitemunderthisAct,heshallhavethe
rightatallreasonabletimestoexamineandtakeacopyof
(a) anyrecordbytheStateGovernmentortheappropriateauthoritywhichwascompiledin
connectionwiththemaking,orproposedmaking,byanypersonofanyapplication
underthisActwithrespecttothechildconcerned;or,
(b) anyotherrecordheldbytheStateGovernmentortheappropriateauthoritywhichwas
compiledinconnectionwithanyfunctionwhichhavebeenreferredtotheirsocial
servicecommittee,sofarasthoserecordsrelatetothatchild.
(2)Whereaguardianadlitemtakesacopyofarecordwhichheisentitledtoexamineunder
thissection,thatcopyOfanypartofitshall,notwithstandinganythingtothecontraryinanyenactment
orrules,beadmissibleasevidenceofanymatterreferredtoinany
(a) reportwhichhemakestotheCourtintheproceedingsinquestion;or(b)evidence
whichhegivesinthoseproceedings.
92. SavingofexistingordersandjurisdictionoftheCourt
(1)NotwithstandingtheprovisionsofthisAct,anorderlawfullymadebyanycourtrelatingto
theguardianshiporcustodyofachildbeforethecommencementofthisActandwhichisinforce,atthe
timeofthecommencementofthisActandisnotinconsistentwiththisActshallcontinueinforce,until
otherprovisionsaremadeunderandbyvirtueofthisAct.
(2)NothinginthisActshallrestrictoraffectthejurisdictionofacourttoappointormove
guardiansbyvirtueoftheHighCourtLawsoranyotherwrittenlaw,untiltheCourthasbeenestablished
intherelevantjurisdictions.
PARTX
Wardship
93. JurisdictionofCourt.
TheCourtshallhavejurisdictioninallmatterspertainingtomakingachildawardofCourt.
94. Wardshiporder
(1)Subjecttotheprovisionsofthissection,nochildshallbemadeawardofcourtexceptby
virtueofanorder,tothateffect,madebytheCourt.
(2)Whereapplicationismadeforanorderinrespectofchild,thechildbecomesawardofcourt
onthemakingoftheorderOfontheexpirationofsuchperiodasmaybeprescribed,unlesswithinthat
periodanotherorderismadeinaccordancewiththenewapplication.
(3)TheCourtmay,eitheruponanapplicationinthatbehalforwithoutanapplication,order
thatachildwhoisforthetimebeingawardofcourtceasestobeawardofcourt.
95. MaintenanceofawardofCourt
(1)Subjecttotheprovisionsofthissection,theCourtmaymakeanorder
(a) requiringeitherparentofawardofcourttopaytotheotherparent;or,
(b) requiringeitherparentorbothparentsofawardofcourttopaytoanyotherperson
havingthecareandcontroloftheward,
suchweeklyorotherperiodicalsumstowardsthemaintenanceandeducationofthewardastheCourt
thinksreasonablehavingregardtothemeansofthepersonorpersonsmakingthepayment.
(2)AnorderunderSubsection(1)ofthissectionmayrequiresuchsumsasarementionedin
thatsubsectiontocontinuetobepaidinrespectofanyperiodbutnotbeyondthedateonwhichthe,
wardofcourtattainstheageofmajorityandsuchorderifmademayprovidethatanysumwhichis
payableforthebenefitofthatward,havingregardtotheageofthechild,bepaiddirectlytothatward.
(3)NoordershallbemadeunderSubsection(1)(a)ofthissection,andnoliabilityunderorder
madeunderthissection,shallace,atatimewhentheparentoftheward.ofcourtorformerwardof
courtasthecasemaybe,areresidingtogetherandIftheysoresideforaperiodofthreemonthsafter
anorderhasbeenmade,theordershallceasetohaveeffect.
(4)TheCourtshallhavepower,fromtimetotime,byanorderunderthissection,tovary
dischargeanypreviousordermadeunderthissection,
96. Committalofwardtocareofappropriateauthority,etc
(1)WhereitappearstotheCourtthatthereareexceptionalcircumstancesmakingit
impracticableorundesirableforawardofcourttobe,ortocontinuetobeunderthecareofeitherof
hisparentsoranyotherperson,theCourtmay,ifitthinksfit,makeanordercommittingthecareofthe
wardtoanappropriateauthority,
(2)WhereitappearstotheCourtthatthereareexceptionalcircumstancesmakingitdesirable
thatawardofcourt,notbeingawardwhoinpursuanceofanorderunderSubsection(1)ofthissection,
isinthecareofanappropriateauthority,shouldbeunderthesupervisionofanindependentperson,
thecourtmay,withregardtosuchperiodasthecourtthinksfit,orderthatthewardbeunderthe
supervisionofachilddevelopmentofficerorotherappropriateauthority.
(3)TheCourtshallhavepower,fromtimetotimebyanorderunderthissectionto;varyor
dischargeanypreviousordermadeunderthissection..
97. Matrimonialcauses.
ACourthearingamatrimonialcaseinwhicha.childmaybeinvolvedmaydirectthatproper
proceedingsbetakenintheCourtattheHighCourtlevelformakingthechildawardofCourt,
98. Dismissalofapplicationforwardship
WheretheCourtisoftheopinionthatanapplicationforwardshipisanabuseofthecourt
process,itshalldismisstheapplicationforthwith
99. Rulesforapplicationforwardship
AnapplicationforwardshipshallbemadeincompliancewiththerulescontainedinThird
ScheduletothisAct.
[ThirdSchedule]
PARTXI
Fostering
100. Applicationforfostering
(1)Apersonmayfosterachildbymakinganapplicationtothecourtwithinthejurisdictionin
whichthepersonandthechildresideatthedateoftheapplication.
(2)Anapplicationforfosteringshallbemadeinaccordancewiththeprocedureandinthe
mannerprescribedbytherulesmadeundertheprovisionsofthisAct.
101. Achildtobefostered
AchildwhomaybefosteredunderthisActincludesachildwho
(a) isabandonedbythisparents;or
(b) isanorphanandis
(i) desertedbyhisrelatives,or
(ii) voluntarilypresentedbyhisrelativesforfostering,or
(Iii) voluntarilypresentshimselfforfostering,wherenorelativesofhiscanbe
found;or
(c) hasbeenabused,neglectedorilltreatedbythepersonhavingcareandcustodyofhim;
or
(d) hasaparentorguardianwhodoesnotorcannotexerciseproperguidanceoverhim;or
(e) isfounddestitute;or
(f) isfoundwandering,hasnohomeorsettledplaceofabode,isonthestreetsorother
publicplace,orhasnovisiblemeansofsubsistence;or
(g) isvoluntarilypresentedbyhisparentsforfostering.
102. Makingafosteringorder
(1)SubjecttotheprovisionsofthisAct,theCourtmay,onreceiptoftheapplicationforfostering
makeanorderauthorisingtheapplicationtofosterthechild.
(2)Exceptwhereamanandhiswifehaveappliedjointlytofosterachild,afosteringordershall
notauthorisemorethanonepersontofosterachild.
103. Limitonnumberofchildrenwhomaybefostered.
Thenumberofchildrenwhomaybefosteredbyapersonshallnotexceedthreeunless
exceptionalCircumstancesareshown.
104. Restrictiononthemakingoffosteringorder
(1)AfosteringordershallnotbemadebytheCourtunless
(a) theapplicantor,inthecaseofajointapplication,eachoftheapplicantsisnotlessthan
twentyfiveyearsoldand,isatleasttwentyoneyearsolderthanthechildtobe
fostered;
(b) theapplicantandthechildareresidentinthesameState;
(c) theapplicantisacitizenofNigeria;
(d) theapplicanthasthemeanstomaintainthechild;
(e) theapplicantisapersonofunquestionableintegrity;and
(f) theapplicantiscertifiedbyamedicalofficertobephysicallyandmentallyfit.
(2)Afosteringordershallnotbemadeinfavourofasoleapplicantwhoisunmarried,unlessthe
applicanthasattainedtheageofthirtyfiveyearsandthechildtobefosteredisofthesamesexasthe
applicant.
105. Consenttofostering
(1)Whereamarriedpersonisthesoleapplicantforafosteringorder,theapplicationshallbe
accompaniedwiththeconsent,inwriting,oftheotherspousethattheorderbemade.
(2)WhereitappearstotheCourtthataperson,otherthanthefatherormotherorrelativeofa
childhasanyrightorobligationinrespectofthechildunderanorderofcourtoranagreementorunder
customarylaw,theCourtmayrefusetomakethefosteringorderuntiltheConsentofthatpersonisfirst
obtained.
(3)TheCourtmaydispensewithanyconsentrequiredunderthissectionifitissatisfiedthatthe
personwhoseconsentwouldhavebeenrequired
(a) hasabandoned,neglectedorpersistentlyilltreatedthechild;or
(b) cannotbefoundorisincapableofgivinghisconsentorisunreasonablywithholdinghis
consent.
106. Furtherconditionsformakingoffosteringorders
(1)Beforemakingafosteringorder,theCourtshallbesatisfiedthat
(a) everyconsentundersection107ofthisAct,whichhasnotbeendispensedwith,had
beenobtainedandeverypersonwhohasgivenhisconsentunderstandsthenatureand
effectofthefosteringorderforwhichtheapplicationismade;
(b) theorder,ifmade,willbeforthemaintenance,care,educationandgeneralwelfareand
beintheinterestofthechild;and
(c) theapplicanthasnotreceivedoragreedtoreceiveandnopersonhasmadeorgivenor
agreetomakeorgivetotheapplicant,anypaymentorotherrewardinconsiderationof
thefostering.
(2)TheCourtmay,inafosteringorder,imposesuchtermsandconditionsasitmaythinkfitand
inparticular,mayrequirethefosterparentbybondorotherwisetomakeforthechildsuchprovisions
asintheopinionoftheCourtisjustandexpedient.
107. InterimOrders
(1)Subjecttothissection,theCourtmay,onapplicationforafosteringorderbyperson,
postponethedeterminationoftheapplicationandmakeaninterimordergivingthecustodyofthechild
totheapplicantforaperiodnotexceedingtwoyears,asaprobationaryperiod,onsuchtermsand
conditionsastheCourtthinksfitasregardsprovisionforthemaintenance,educationandsupervisionof
thechildandotherwise.
(2)TheCourtshallimposethefollowingconditionsundersubsection(1)ofthissection,thatis
(a) thatthechildshallbeunderthesupervisionofanofficerappointedbytheCourt;and
(b) thatthechildshallnotbetakenoutoftheStatewithoutthepriorconsentofthecourt.
(3)Allconsentsasarerequiredforthemakingofafosteringordershallbenecessaryforan
interimorderbutsubjecttoalikepoweronthepartoftheCourttodispensewithanysuchconsent.
(4)Aninterimordershallnotbemadeinanycasewherethemakingofafosteringorderwould
beunlawfulbyvirtueofsection127ofthisAct.
(5)AninterimordershallnothavethesameeffectasafosteringorderunderthisAct.
(6)AninterimordermayberevokedbytheCourtifthefosterparentfailstocomplywithany
conditionimposedonhimbytheinterimorderpursuanttothissection.
108. RulesofCourt
(1)TheChiefJusticeofNigeriamaymakerulesofCourtprovidinggenerallyforthepracticeand
procedureoftheCourtinrespectofthefosteringofchildrenunderthisAct.
(2)Thepowertomakerulesconferredundersubsection(1)ofthissectionshall,without
prejudicetothegeneralityofthatsubsection,includepowertomakeprovisionsfor
(a) proceedingstobeheldincameraindeterminingtheapplicationintheCourt;
(b) excludingorrestrictingthejurisdictionofanycourtwhereapreviousapplicationmade
bytheapplicantinrespectofthesamechildhasbeenrefusedbythatoranyother
court;
(c) theadmissionofdocumentaryevidenceofanyconsentrequiredundersection107of
thisAct;and
(d) areportfortheassistanceoftheCourtindeterminingwhetherornotthefostering
orderwillbeintheoverallinterestandwelfareofthechildhavingregardtotheability
oftheapplicanttomaintain,care,forandeducatethechild.
109. Appeal
AnappealshalllietotheCourtatHighCourtlevelfromtheCourtattheMagisteriallevelin
respectofadecisiononanapplicationforafosteringorderotherthanadecisiontopostponethe
determinationofanapplicationfortheorderortomakeaninterimorder.
110. Rightsanddutiesoffosterparentsandotherpersons
(1)Onthemakingofafosteringorder
(a) allrights,duties,obligationsandliabilities,including
(i) anyarisingundercustomarylawapplicabletotheparentsofthechild,orany
otherPersonorpersonsinrelationtothecustody,maintenanceandeducation
ofthechild,and
(ii) allrightstoappointaguardianandtoconsentorgivenoticeofconsentor
marriage,shallbesuspended;and
(b) thereshallvestinandbeexercisablebyandenforceableagainstthefosterparents,all
suchrights,duties,obligationsandliabilitiesinrelationtocustody,maintenanceand
educationofthechildasifthechildwereachildborntothefosterparentinlawful
marriage.
(2)Achildshall,inrespectofhiscustody,maintenanceandeducation,standtothefoster
parentexactlyinthepositionofachildborntothefosterparentinlawfulmarriage.
(3)Whereahusbandandwifearejointfosterparents,theyshall,inrespectofthecustody,
maintenanceandeducationofthechild,andforthepurposeofthejurisdictionofanycourttomake
ordersastothecustodyandmaintenanceofarightofaccesstothechild,standtoeachotherandto
thechildinthesamerelationshipastheywouldhavestoodifthechildwereachildborntothemin
lawfulmarriage.
111. Effectoffosteringonmaintenanceorder
Whereatthetimeafosteringorderismadeinrespectofachild,anorderrequiringapersonto
contributetowardsthemaintenanceofthatchildunderthisActisinforce,thefosteringordershall
prevail.
112. FosteredChildrenRegister
(1)TheChiefRegistrarandtheappropriatechilddevelopmentserviceshalleachkeepand
maintainaregistertobeknownastheFosteredChildrenRegisterinwhichshallbemadesuchentriesas
maybedirectedbyafosteringordertobemadetherein.
(2)AfosteringordershallcontainadirectiontotheChiefRegistrarandtheappropriatechild
developmentservicetomakeintheFosteredChildrenRegistertheentryintheformspecifiedinPartII
ofFourthScheduletothisAct.
(3)If,onanapplicationtotheCourtforafosteringorder,itisprovedtothesatisfactionofthe
Courtthatthedateofbirthofthechildandotherparticularsofthechildareidenticalwithachildto
whomentryintheRegisterofBirthskeptbytheNationalPopulationCommissionrelates,thefostering
ordershallcontainafurtherdirectiontotheChiefRegistrarandtheappropriatechilddevelopment
servicetocausetheentryintheRegisterofBirthstobemarkedFostered.
(4)Whereafosteringorderismadeinrespectofachildwhohasbeenthesubjectofaprevious
fosteringordermadeunderthisAct,thefosteringordershallcontainadirectiontotheChiefRegistrar
andtheappropriatechilddevelopmentservicetocausethepreviousentryintheFosteredChildren
RegisterandtheRegisterofBirthsinrespectofthatchildtobemarkedRefostered.
(5)TheCourtshallcauseacopyofeveryfosterordertobecommunicatedtotheChiefRegistrar
andtheappropriatechilddevelopmentserviceandonreceiptoftheorder,theChiefRegistrarandthe
appropriatechilddevelopmentserviceshallcomplywiththedirectionscontainedtherein.
(6)AcertifiedcopyofanentryintheFosteredChildrenRegisterifpurportingtobestamped,or
sealedwiththesealofofficeoftheChiefregistrarshallbeprimafacieproofofthefactscontained
therein,includingthedateofbirthofachildtowhomitrelateswithoutanyfurtherevidenceasifthe
samewereacertifiedcopyofanentryintheRegisterofBirths.
(7)TheChiefRegistrarshallcauseanindexoftheFosteredChildrenregistertobemadeand
keptintheregistry.
(8)Acopyofextractofanentryinanyregister,beinganentrywhichiscancelledunderthis
section,shallbeaprimafacieevidenceofthatcancellation.
(9)Aregister,recordorbookasismentionedinsubsection(8)ofthissectionoranindexthereof
shallnotbeliabletobesearchedbyanymemberofthepublic,andtheChiefRegistrarshallnotmakea
certifiedcopythereoforfurnishanyinformationthereincontainedtoapersonexceptunderanorder
madebythecourt.
(10)Ontherevocationofafosteringorder,theCourtshallcausethefactoftherevocationtobe
communicatedtotheChiefRegistrarandtheappropriatechilddevelopmentservicewhoshallcancelor
causetobecanceled
(a) theentryintheFosteredChildrenRegisterrelatingtothefosteredchild;and
(b) thewordFosteredorRefosteredintheentryrelatingtothefosteredchildinthe
RegisterofBirths.
(11)TheChiefRegistrarmaykeepsuchrecordbooksandmakesuchotherentriesthereinas
maybeconsistentwiththeparticularscontainedintheFosteredChildrenRegister.
113. Visittofosteredchildbychilddevelopmentofficers
(1)Theappropriatechilddevelopmentserviceshallkeepitselfinformed,fromtimetotime,of
theconditionandwelfareofeachchildfosteredunderthisActadforthatpurpose,arrangeforchild
developmentofficerstodoalloranyofthefollowingthingsthatis
(a) topayperiodicvisitsatreasonabletimestoeachchildfosteredunderthisActuntilthe
childattainstheageofeighteenyears;and
(b) toenteranypremisesforthepurposeofascertainingwhetherthereisany
contravention,byapersonofanyconditionofthefosteringorofanyotherprovisionof
thisAct.
(2)Duringavisitunderthissection.theofficerconductingthevisitmayrequiretheproduction
ofthefosteredchildorthatinformationbegivenregardingtheconditionofthechild.
114. Revocationofafosterorderongroundsoftheinterestofthechild
Whereitisprovedtothesatisfactionofacourtthatafosterparenthasabandoned.neglected
orpersistently.illtreatedorassaultedafosteredchild,theCourtshall
(a) revokethefosteringorderinrespectofthechild;and
(b) proceedtotakeothernecessaryactionpursuanttotheprovisionsofthisAct.
115. Prohibitionofreceivingmoneyorrewardasinducementtofosterachild
(1)Apersonwho
(a) receivesoragreestoreceivemoneyorareward;isaninducementtofosterachild;or
(b) receivesoragreestoreceivemoneyoranyrewardinordertofacilitatearrangementsto
fosterachild;or
(c) givesoragreestogivemoneyorrewardtosecureconsentofapersontofosterachild,
commitsanoffenceunderthisAct.
(2)Apersonwhocommitsanoffenceundersubsection(1)ofthissectionisliableonconviction
toafinenotexceedingthirtythousandnairaorimprisonmentforatermnotexceedingthreeyearsorto
bothsuchfineandimprisonment.
116. Prohibitionoftaking,sendingfosteredchildoutofstateorNigeria
(1)WhereafosterparentintendstotakeafosteredchildoutsidetheStateorNigeria,heshall
givenoticetotheCourtofhisintentiontodosoandshall,onreturntotheStateorNigeria,notifythe
Courtoftheirreturn.
(2)Apersonwhopermitsorcausesorprocuresthepossessionofachildtobegiventoany
person
(a) outsidetheStateinwhichthefosteringorderwasmade;or
(b) outsideNigeria,withintenttogettingthatchildfosteredbythatpersoncommitsan
offence.
(3)Apersonwhocommitsanoffenceundersubsection(2)ofthissectionisliableonconviction
inthecaseofanoffenceunder
(a) subsection(2)(a)ofthissection.toimprisonmentforatermoftenyears;and
(b) Subsection(2)(b)ofthissection,toimprisonmentforatermoffifteenyears.
117. Prohibitionofwithdrawalofachildfromthecareoftheapplicant
WhileanapplicationforafosteringorderispendinginaCourt,nopersonwhohasgivenhis
consenttoafosteringorderbeingmadeinrespectofachildshallwithdrawthechildorcausethechild
tobewithdrawnfromthecareandpossessionoftheapplicantwithouttheleaveoftheCourtandthe
courtshall,ingrantingtheleave,haveregardtothewelfareofthechild.
118. Fosterparentprohibitedfrommarryingfosteredchild
(1)NofosterparentshallmarryanychildfosteredbyhimpursuanttothisAct.
(2)AfosterparentwhomarriesachildfosteredbyhimcommitsanoffenceunderthisActandis
liableonconvictiontoimprisonmentforatermnotexceedingfourteenyears.
119. Noncompliancewithlawfuldirectives
Apersonwho
(a) withoutreasonableexcuse,failstocomplywithalawfuldirectivegivenbyachild
developmentofficer;or
(b) obstructsasocialwelfareofficerintheexerciseofthepowersconferredbythisAct,
commitsanoffenceandisliableonconvictiontoafinenoexceedingtwothousandfivehundrednaira
ortoimprisonmentforatermnotexceedingthreemonthsortobothsuchfineandimprisonment.
120. Privatearrangementforfosteringchildren
(1)ForthepurposesofthisPartofthisActandsubjecttosubsection(2)ofthissection
(a) achildshallbedeemedtobefosteredprivatelyifheiscaredfor,andprovidedwith
accommodationbyapersonotherthan
(i) aparentofthechild;or
(ii) anyotherpersonwhohasparentalresponsibilityforthechild,or
(iii) arelativeofthechild;and
(b) apersonshallbedeemedtofosterachildprivatelyifhecaresforthechildin
circumstancesinwhichthechildisfosteredprivatelyasdefinedunderparagraph(a)of
thissubsection.
(2)Achildisnotfosteredprivatelyifthepersoncaringforandaccommodatingthechildhas
donesoforaperiodoflessthantwentyeightdaysanddoesnotintendtodosoforanylongerperiod.
(3)TheprovisionsinPartIIIofFourthScheduletothisActshallhaveeffectforthepurposeof
supplementingtheprovisionsofthissection.
121. Welfareofachildfosteredprivately
(1)EveryStateGovernmentshall
(a) satisfyitselfthatthewelfareandbestinterestofachildwhoisfosteredprivatelywithin
theStatearesatisfactorilysafeguardedandpromoted;and
(b) ensurethatpersonscaringforthatchildaregivensuchadviceasappearstotheState
Governmenttobeneeded.
(2)WhereapersonwhoisauthorisedbyaStateGovernmenttovisitachildwhoisfostered
privatelyhasreasonablecausetobelievethatachildwhoisorisproposedtobefosteredprivatelyis
beingaccommodatedinpremiseswithintheState,may,atanyreasonabletime,inspectthosepremises
andanychildaccommodatedtherein,
(3)Apersonexercisingthepowerundersubsection(2)ofthissectionshall,ifsorequired,
producesomedulyauthenticateddocumentshowinghisauthoritytodoso.
(4)WhereanofficeroftheStateGovernmentisnotsatisfiedthatthewelfareofachildwhois
fosteredprivatelywithintheStateissatisfactorilysafeguardedorpromoted,heshall
(a) unlessheconsidersthatitwouldnotbeinthebestinterestofthechild,takesuchsteps
asarereasonablypracticabletosecurethatthecareandaccommodationofthechildis
undertakenby
(i) aparentofthechild,or
(ii) anyotherpersonwhohasparentalresponsibilityforthechild,or
(iii) arelativeofthechild,and
(b) considertheextenttowhich,ifatall,theyshallexerciseanyoftheirpowersunderthis
Actwithrespecttothechild.
(5)TheMinistermaymakeregulations
(a) requiringeverychildwhoisfosteredprivatelywithinaStatetobevisitedbyanofficer
ofStateGovernment
(i) inprescribedcircumstances,and
(ii) onspecifiedoccasionsorwithinspecifiedperiods;and
(b) imposingrequirementswhicharetobemetbyanyStateofficerincarryingouthis
functionsunderthissection.
122. Apersondisqualifiedfromfosteringachildprivately
(1)Apersonshallnotfosterachildprivatelyifheisdisqualifiedfromdoingsobyregulations
madebytheMinisterforthepurposesofthissection,unlesshehasdisclosedthefacttotheappropriate
authorityandobtaineditswrittenconsent.
(2)Theregulationsshall,inparticular,provideforapersontobesodisqualifiedwhere
(a) anorderofakindspecifiedintheregulationshasbeenmadeatanytime
(i) withrespecttothatperson,or
(ii) withrespecttoachildwhohasbeeninthecareofthatperson;
(b) arequirementofakindsospecifiedhasbeenimposebyanenactment;
(c) hehasbeenconvictedofanoffenceofakindsospecified,orhasbeenplacedon
probationordischargedabsolutelyorconditionallyforanyoffence;
(d) aprohibitionhasbeenimposedonhimatanytimeundersection123ofthisActor
underanyotherspecifiedenactment;
(e) hisrightsandpowerswithrespecttoachildhaveatanytimebeenvestedinaspecified
authorityunderaspecifiedenactment.
(3)Apersonshallnotfosterachildprivatelyif
(a) helivesinthesamehouseholdasapersonwhoishimselfpreventedfromfosteringa
childbysubsection(i)ofthissection;or
(b) helivesinahouseholdatwhichanysuchpersonisemployed,
unlesshehasdisclosedthefacttotheappropriateauthorityandobtainedtheirwrittenconsent.
(4)Whereanappropriateauthorityrefusestogiveitsconsentunderthissection,itshallinform
theapplicantbyawrittennotice
(a) thereasonfortherefusal;
(b) theapplicantsrightstoappealagainsttherefusal;and
(c) thetimewithinwhichhemayappeal.
(5)TheformsetoutinPartIVoftheFourthScheduletothisActandtheprovisionscontainedin
PartVandVIofthatScheduleshallbeusedandhaveeffectforthepurposesofthissectionandthisPart
ofthisAct.
[FourthSchedule]
123. PowerofStateGovernmenttoprohibitprivatefostering
(1)Thissectionapplieswhereaperson
(a) proposestofosterachildprivately;or
(b) isfosteringachildprivately.
(2)WheretheStateGovernmentinwhoseStatethechildisproposedtobe,orisbeingfostered,
isoftheopinionthat
(a) apersonisnotasuitablepersontofosterachild;or
(b) thepremisesinwhichthechildwillbe,orisbeingaccommodated,arenotsuitable;or
(c) itwouldbeprejudicialtothewelfareofthechildforhimto,orcontinuetobe,
accommodatedbythatpersoninthosepremises,theStateGovernmentmayimposeon
himaprohibitionspecifiedundersubsection(3)ofthissection.
(3)Aprohibitionimposedonapersonundersubsection(2)ofthissectionmayprohibithim
fromfosteringprivately
(a) anychildinanypremiseswithintheState;or
(b) anychildinpremisesspecifiedintheprohibition;or
(c) achildidentifiedintheprohibition,inpremisesspecifiedintheprohibition.
(4)AStateGovernmentwhichhasimposedaprohibitiononanypersonundersubsection(2)of
thissection,may,ifitthinksfit,canceltheprohibition
(a) ofitsownmotion;or
(b) onanapplicationmadebythatperson,ifitissatisfiedthattheprohibitionisnolonger
justified.
(5)Aprohibitionimposedunderthissectionshallbeimposedbynoticeinwritingaddressedto
thepersononwhomitisimposedandinforminghimof
(a) thereasonforimposingtheprohibition;
(b) hisrighttoappealagainsttheprohibition;and
(c) thetimewithinwhichhemayappeal.
124. OffencesunderthisPart
(1)Apersonwho
(a) beingrequired,underanyprovisionmadebyorunderthisPartofthisAct,togiveany
noticeorinformation
(i) fails,withoutreasonableexcuse,togivethenoticewithinthetimespecifiedin
thatprovision.or
(ii) fails,withoutreasonableexcuse,togivetheinformationwithinareasonable
time,or
(iii) makesorcausesorprocuresanotherpersontomakeanystatementinthe
noticeorinformationwhichheknowsorbelievestobefalseormisleadingina
materialparticular;or
(b) refusestoallowachildfosteredprivatelytobevisitedbyadulyauthorisedofficerofthe
StateGovernment;or
(c) intentionallyobstructsanotherpersonintheexerciseofthepowerconferredby
section121(2)ofthisAct;or
(d) contravenessection124ofthisAct;or
(e) fails,withoutreasonableexcuse,tocomplywithanyrequirementimposedbyaState
GovernmentunderthisPartofthisAct;or
(f) accommodatesachildfosteredprivatelyinanypremisesincontraventionofa
prohibitionknowntohimtohave.beenimposedbyaStateGovernmentunderthisPart
ofthisAct;or
(g) knowinglypublishesorcausestobepublished,anadvertisementwhichheknows
contravenesParagraph8ofPartIIIofSchedule4tothisAct,
commitsanoffenceunderthisAct.
(2)WhereapersoncontravenesSection124(3)ofthisAct,hedoesnotcommitanoffence
underthissectionifheprovesthathedidnotknow,andhadnoreasonablegroundforbelieving,thata
ntowhomsection124(1)applieswaslivingoremployedinthepremisesinquestion.
(3) Apersonwhocommitsanoffence
(a) undersubsection(1)(a)ofthissection,isliableonsummaryconvictiontoafinenor
exceedingfivethousandNaira
(b) undersubsection(1)(b),(c),(d),(e),(f),or(g)ofthissection,isliableonsummary
convictiontoafinenotexceedingfivethousandNairaorimprisonmentforatermnot
exceedingsixmonthsortobothsuchfineandimprisonment.
(4)IfapersonwhoisrequiredunderanyprovisionofthisPartofthisActtogivenoticefailsto
givethenoticewithinthetimespecifiedinthatprovision,proceedingsforanoffencemaybebroughtat
anytimewithinsixmonthsfromthedatewhenevidenceoftheoffencecametotheknowledgeofthe
StateGovernment.
PARTXII
Adoption
125. Establishmentofadoptionservices,etc.
(1)EveryStateGovernmentshall,forthepurposeofadoption,establishandmaintainwithinthe
Stateand,inthecaseoftheFederalGovernment,withintheFederalCapitalTerritory,Abujaaservice
designedtomeettheneedsof
(a) achildwhohasbeenormaybeadopted;
(b) parentsandguardiansofthechildspecifiedinparagraph(a)ofthissubsection;and
(c) personswhohaveadoptedorwhomayadoptachild,andforthispurpose,every
Governmentshallprovidemerequisitefacilitiesorensurethatmefacilitiesareprovided
byapprovedadoptionservicesasmaybeprescribedbytheappropriateauthority.
(2)Thefacilitiestobeprovidedaspartoftheservicesmaintainedundersubsection(1)ofthis
sectioninclude
(a) temporaryboardandlodging,whereneededbyachildand,inexceptional
circumstancesthemotherofachild;
(b) arrangementsforassessingachildandprospectiveadoptersandplacingofthechildfor
adoption;and
(c) counselingforpersonswithproblemsrelatingtoadoption.
126. Establishmentofadoptionservices,etc.
(1)AnapplicationforadoptionshallbemadetotheCourtinsuchformasmaybeprescribed,
andshallbeaccompaniedwith
(a) wheretheapplicantisamarriedcouple,theirmarriagecertificateorasworn
declarationofmarriage;
(b) thebirthcertificateorsworndeclarationofageofeachapplicant;
(c) twopassportphotographsofeachapplicant;
(d) amedicalcertificateofthefitnessoftheapplicantfromaGovernmenthospital;and
(e) suchotherdocuments,requirementsandinformationastheCourtmayrequireforthe
purposesoftheadoption.
(2)Onreceiptofanapplicationundersubsection(i)ofthissection,theCourtshallorderan
investigationtobeconductedby
(a) achilddevelopmentofficers;
(b) asupervisionofficer;and
(c) suchotherpersonsastheCourtmaydetermine,toenabletheCourttoassessthe
suitabilityoftheapplicantasanadopterandofthechildtobeadopted.
(3) TheCourtshall,inreachingadecisionrelatingtotheadoptionofachild,haveregardto
allthecircumstances,firstconsiderationbeinggivento
(a) theneedtosafeguardandpromotethewelfareandthebestinterestofthechild
throughoutthechildhoodofthatchild;and
(b) ascertaining,asfaraspracticable,thewishesandfeelingsofthechildregardingthe
decisionandgivingdueconsiderationtothosewishesandfeelings,havingregardtothe
ageandunderstandingofthechild.
127. Religiousupbringingofadoptedchild
TheCourtshall,inplacingachildforadoption,haveregardasfarasispracticabletothewishes,
ifany,oftheparentsorguardianofthechildastothereligiousupbringingofthechild.
128. Personswhomaybeadopted
TheCourtshall,notmakeanadoptionorderinrespectofachildunless
(a) theparentsofthechildor,wherethereisnosurvivingparent,theguardianofthechild
consentstotheadoption;or
(b) thechildisabandonedneglectedorpersistentlyabusedorilltreated,andthereare
compellingreasonsintheinterestofthechildwhyheshouldbeadopted.
129. Personswhomayadopt
Thefollowingpersonsmayapplyforanadoptionorder
(a) amarriedcouplewhere
(i) eachofthemhasattainedtheageoftwentyfiveyears,and
(ii)thereisanorderauthorisingthemjointlytoadoptachild;or
(b) amarriedpersonifhehasobtainedconsentofhisspouse,asrequiredundersection
132ofthisAct;or
(c) asingleperson,ifhehasattainedtheageofthirtyfiveyears,providedthatthechildto
beadoptedisofthesamesexasthepersonadopting;or
(d) inallcasesspecifiedinparagraphs(a),(b)and(c)ofthissection,theadopteror
adoptersshallbepersonsfoundtobesuitabletoadoptthechildinquestionbythe
appropriateinvestigatingofficers.
130. Powertomakeadoptionorder
(1)SubjecttotheprovisionsofthisAct.theCourtmay,ontheapplicationofapersonstatedin
section126ofthisActintheprescribedmannermakeanorderunderthisActreferredtoasanadoption
order.
(2)AnadoptionordershallbemadeintheformspecifiedintheFifthScheduletothisAct
[FifthSchedule]
131. Restrictionsonthemakingofadoptionorders.
(1)Anadoptionordershallnotbemadeinrespectofachildunless
(a) theapplicantor,inthecaseofajointapplication,oneofthem,isnotlessthantwenty
fiveyearsoldandis,atleast,twentyoneyearsolderthanthechild;
(b) theapplicant,orinthecaseofajointapplication,bothor,atleast,oneofthemandthe
childareresidentinthesameState;
(c) theapplicanthasbeenresidentor,inthecaseofajointapplication,bothofthemhave
beenresidentintheStateinwhichtheapplicationismadeforaperiodof.atleast,five
years;
(d) theapplicantisacitizenor,inthecaseofajointapplication,bothapplicantsarecitizens
ofNigeria;
(e) thechildhasbeeninthecareoftheapplicantforaperiodofatleastthreeconsecutive
monthsimmediatelyprecedingthedateonwhichtheorderismade;and
(j) theapplicanthas,atleasttwelvemonthsbeforethemakingoftheorder,
informedthesocialwelfareofficerofhisintentiontoadoptthechild.
(2)Ontheapplicationofamarriedcouple,iftheyconsistofaparentandastepparentofthe
child,theCourtshalldismisstheapplicationifitconsidersthatthematterwouldbebetterdealtwith
underPartVIIIofthisAct.
132. Requiredconsent
(1)Whereamarriedpersonisthesoleapplicantforanadoptionorder,theCourtmay,ifit
thinksfit,refusetomaketheorderiftheconsentofthespouseoftheapplicanttothemakingofthe
orderisnotfirstobtained.
(2)WhereitappearstotheCourtthatapersonotherthantheparentorrelativeofachildhas
anyrightorobligationinrespectofthechildunderanorderoftheCourtoranyagreementorunder
customarylawtheCourtmay,ifitthinkstit,refusetomaketheadoptionorderiftheconsentofthat
personisnotfirstobtained.
(3)Thechilddevelopmentofficeronanapplicationforanadoptionorderinrespectofachild,
shallprepareareportshallassisttheCourtindeterminingwhetherapersonwhoisnotaparentor
relativeofthechildhasanyrightorobligationinrespectofthatchildandwhethertheconsentofthe
personoughtfirsttobeobtained.
(4)Aconsentunderthissectionmaybegiveneither
(a) unconditionally;or
(b) subjecttoconditionswithrespecttothereligiouspersuasioninwhichthechildistobe
broughtup.
(5)Ingivingaconsentunderthissection,itmaynotbenecessaryforthepersongivingthe
consenttoknowtheidentityoftheapplicantfortheadoptionorder.
(6)TheCourtmaydispensewithanyconsentrequiredunderthissectionifitissatisfiedthatthe
personwhoseconsentisrequiredcannotbefoundorisincapableofgivinghisconsentoriswithholding
hisconsentunreasonably.
(7)WhileanapplicationforanadoptionorderispendinginanyCourt,nopersonwhohasgiven
hisconsenttoanadoptionordertobemadeinrespectofachildshallwithdrawthechildfromthecare
andpossessionoftheapplicantwithouttheleaveoftheCourtandtheCourtshallhaveregardtothe
welfareofthechildinconsideringwhetherornottogramtheleave.
133. Conditionsprecedingthemakingofadoptionorder
TheCourtshall,beforemakinganadoptionorder,satisfyitselfthat
(a) everyconsentrequiredundersection132ofthisActwhichhasnotbeendispensedwith
hasbeenobtained;
(b) everypersonwhohasgivenhisconsentunderstandsthenatureandeffectofthe
adoptionorderforwhichtheapplicationismadeandforthispurposetherelevant
adoptionserviceshallprovideadequatecounselingforthepartiesinvolvedinthe
adoption;
(c) theorder,ifmade,shallbeforthewelfareandbestinterestofthechild,due
considerationforthispurposebeinggiventothewishesofthechildhavingregardtohis
ageandunderstanding;and
(d) theapplicanthasnotreceivedoragreedtoreceive,andnopersonhasmadegivenor
agreedtomakeorgivetotheapplicantanypaymentorotherrewardinconsideration
oftheadoptionotherthanwhattheCourtmayapprove.
134. Powerofcourttoimposetermsandconditions.
TheCourtmay,inmakingadoptionorder,imposesuchtermsandconditionsastheCourtmay
thinkfit,andinparticular,mayrequiretheadopter,bybondorotherwise,tomakeforthechildsuch
provisions,ifany,asintheopinionoftheCourt,arejustandexpedient.
135. Interimorders,pendingadoptionorders
(1)Subjecttotheprovisionsofthissection,theCourtmay,onanapplicationforanadoption
order,postponethedeterminationoftheapplicationandmakeaninterimordergivingthecustodyof
thechildtotheapplicantforaperiodnotexceedingtwoyearsonsuchtermsandconditionsasthe
Courtthinksfitasregardsprovisionforthemaintenance,educationandsupervisionofthewelfareof
thechildanotherwise.
(2)TheCourtshall,inmakinganinterimorderundersubsection(1)ofthissection,specifythatthechild
shall
(a) beunderthesupervisionofsuchchilddevelopmentofficerastheMinistermayappoint;
and
(b) notbetakenoutoftheStateconcernedwithouttheconsentoftheCourt.
(3)Theconsentstothemakingofanadoptionorderwhicharerequiredundersection132of
thisActshallberequiredtothemakingofaninterimorder,andthepoweroftheCourttodispensewith
anysuchconsentshallalsoapplyinthecaseofaninterimorder,
(4)Aninterimordershallnotbemadeinanycasewherethemakingofanadoptionorderwould
beunlawfulundertheprovisionsofthisAct.
(5)AninterimordershallnotbedeemedtobeanadoptionorderwithinthemeaningofthisAct.
136. JurisdictionoftheCourt
SubjecttorulesoftheCourtmadeundersection137ofthisAct,theCourtshallhaveexclusive
jurisdictiontodealwithanapplicationforanadoptionorder.
137. RulesoftheCourtforadoptionofachild
(1)TheChiefJusticeofNigeriamaymakerulesofCourtforregulatinggenerallythepracticeand
procedureoftheCourtinrespectoftheadoptionofchild.
(2)Thepowertomakerulesconferredbysubsection(1)ofthissection,shall,withoutprejudice
tothegeneralityofthatsubsection,includepowertomakeprovisionsfor
(a) applicationfortheadoptionordersbeingheardanddeterminedotherwisethaninopen
court;
(b) theadmissionofdocumentaryevidenceofanyconsentrequiredundersection132of
thisAct;and
(c) requiringthechilddevelopmentofficertopreparefortheconsiderationoftheCourton
anapplicationforanadoptionorder.areport,fortheassistanceoftheCourtin
determiningwhethertheorderwillbeforthewelfareandbestinterestofthechild.
138. Appeals
(1)AnappealshalllietotheCourtattheHighCourtlevelfromtheCourtattheMagisteriallevel
inrespectofdecisiononanyapplicationforanadoptionorder,otherthanadecisiontopostponethe
determinationoftheapplicationforsuchanorderandmakeaninterimorder.
(2)WheretheCourtattheHighCourtlevelexercisesoriginalorappellatejurisdictionappeal
shalllietotheCourtofAppeal.
(3)Proceedingsinrespectofanappealunderthissectionshallbeconductedinchambers.
139. Adoptionwhencorrectiveorderisinforce
(1)Achildmaybeadoptednotwithstandingthatacorrectiveorderisinforceinrespectofthe
child.
(2)Ontheapplicationforanadoptionorderbeingmadeinacaseundersubsection(1)ofthis
sectionandonbeingsatisfiedthattheadoptionwouldbeforthewelfareandbestinterestofthechild
concerned,theCourtshallsuspendthecorrectiveordersoastoenabletheapplicanttohavethechildin
hiscaseforaperiodofatleastthreeconsecutivemonthsimmediatelyprecedingthedateofthe
adoptionorder.
140. Adoptionwheremaintenanceorderisinforce
(1)Achildmaybeadoptednotwithstandingthatamaintenanceorderisinforceinrespectof
thechild.
(2)Where,atthetimewhenanadoptionorderismadeinrespectofachild,amaintenance
orderrequiringapersontocontributetowardsthemaintenanceofthatchildunderthisActoranyother
lawisinforce,themaintenanceordershallceasetohaveeffectatthattime.
141. Effectofadoption
(1)Onanadoptionorderbeingmade
(a) allrights,duties,obligationsandliabilities,includinganyotherorderunderthepersonal
lawapplicabletotheparentsofthechildoranyotherpersoninrelationtothefuture
custody,maintenancesupervisionandeducationofthechild,includingallreligious
rights,righttoappointaguardianandtoconsentorgivenoticeofdissenttomarriage,
shallbeextinguished;and
(b) thereshallvestin,andbeexercisablebyandenforceableagainsttheadopter
(i) allrights,duties,obligationsandliabilitiesinrespectofthefuturecustody,
maintenance,supervisionandeducationofthechild,and
(ii) allrightstoappointaguardianandtoconsentorgivenoticeofdissentto
marriageofthechild,aswouldvestintheadopterasifthechildwereanatural
childoftheadopter,andinrespectofthosematters,thechildshallstandtothe
adopterintherelationshipofachildborntotheadopter.
(2)Whereahusbandandwifearejointadoptersofachild,theyshall
(a) inrespectofthemattersspecifiedunderthissection;and
(b) forthepurposeofthejurisdictionoftheCourttomakeordersastothecustodyand
maintenanceofandrightsofaccesstothechildren,standtoeachotherandtothechild
inthesamerelationshipastheywouldhavestoodifthechildweretheirnaturalchild
andinrespectofthosematters,thechildshallstandtothemintherelationshipofa
childborntotheadopters.
(3)Forthepurposesofthedevolutionofthepropertyontheintestacyoftheadopteran
adoptedchildshallbetreatedasachildborntotheadopter.
(4)Inadispositionofpropertymadeafterthedateofanadoptionorder,reference,whether
expressorimplied,to
(a) thechildorchildrenoftheadoptershall,unlessthecontraryintentionappears,be
consideredasincluding,areferencetotheadoptedchild;and
(b) apersonrelatedtotheadoptedchildinanydegreeshall,unlessthecontraryintention
appeared,beconstruedasareferencetothepersonwhowouldberelatedtohimin
thatdegreeifhewerethenaturalchildoftheadopterandwerenotthechildofany
otherperson.
142. EstablishmentoftheAdoptedChildrenRegister
(1)TheChiefRegistrarshallestablishandmaintainaregistertobecalledandknownasthe
AdoptedChildrenRegisterinwhichshallbemadesuchentriesasmaybedirectedbyanadoption
ordertobemadetherein,butnootherentries.
(2)AnadoptionordershallcontainadirectiontotheChiefRegistrarandtheNationalPopulation
Commission(inthisPartofthisActreferredtoastheCommission)tomakeintheAdoptedChildren
RegisterentryintheformspecifiedintheFifthScheduletothisAct.
[FifthSchedule]
(3)IfonanyapplicationtotheCourtforanadoption,thereisprovedtothesatisfactionofthe
Courtthat
(a) thedateofthebirthofthechild;and
(b) theidentityofthechildisidenticalto,achild,towhomanyentryintheRegisterof
BirthskeptbytheCommissionrelates,theadoptionordershallcontainafurther
directiontotheChiefRegistrartocausethatbirthentryintheRegisterofBirthstobe
markedAdoptedandtoincludeintheentryrelatingtotheadoptionofthechildinthe
AdoptedChildrenRegisterthedayofthechildsbirth.
(4)Whereanadoptionorderismadeinrespectorachildwhohadbeenthesubjectofa
previousadoptionorder,madebythecourtunderthisAct,theordershallcontainadirectiontothe
ChiefRegistrarandtheCommissiontocausethepreviousentryintheAdoptedChildrenRegisterin
respectofthatchildtobemarkedReadopted.
(5)TheCourtshallcauseacopyofeveryadoptionordertobecommunicatedtotheChief
RegistrarandtheCommissionandonreceiptoftheorder,theChiefRegistrarandtheCommissionshall
complywiththedirectionscontainedtherein.
(6)AcertifiedcopyofanentryintheAdoptedChildrenRegisterifpurportingtobestampedor
sealedbytheChiefRegistrarsofficeshallbeproofoftheadoptionasisthereinspecifiedandwherethe
copyoftheentryincludesthedateofthebirthofthechildtowhomitrelates,itshallbeproofalsoof
thedatewithoutanyfurtherevidenceasthoughthesamewerealsoacertifiedcopyofanentryinthe
RegisterofBirths.
(7)TheChiefRegistrarshallcauseanindexoftheAdoptedChildrenRegistertobemadeand
keptintheRegistry,
(8)TheChiefRegistrarshall,inadditiontotheAdoptedChildrenRegisterandtheindexthereof
keepsuchotherregistersandbooksandmakesuchentriesthereinasmaybenecessarytorecord,in
connectionwithanentryintheRegisterofBirthswhichhasbeenmarkedAdopted,
(9)AnysuchRegisterorbooksasarementionedinsubsection(8)ofthissectionoranyindex
thereof.ifany,shallnotbeliabletosearchesbymembersofthepublicandtheChiefRegistrarshall
makeacertifiedcopythereoforfurnishanyinformationthereincontainedtoanypersonexceptunder
anordermadebytheCourt.
(10)Ontherevocationofanadoptionorder,theCourtshallcausethefactoftherevocationto
becommunicatedtotheChiefRegistrarwhoshallcausetobecancelled
(a) theentryintheAdoptedChildrenRegisterrelatingtotheadoptedchild;and
(b) themarkingwiththewordAdoptedorReadoptedofanyentryrelatingtothechildin
theRegisterofBirths.
(11)Acopyofanextractofanentryinanyregisterbeinganentrythemarkingofwhichis
cancelledunderthissectionshallbedeemedtobeanaccuratecopyifboththemarkingandthe
cancellationareomittedtherefrom.
143. Prohibitionofcertainpaymentsforadoption
(1)Noadopteroranyotherpersonshall
(a) exceptwiththesanctionoftheCourt,receiveoragreetoreceiveanypaymentor
rewardinconsiderationfororforthefacilitationoftheadoptionofachildunderthis
Act;
(b) makeorgiveoragreetomakeorgivetoanadopteranypaymentorrewardthereceipt
ofwhichisprohibitedbythissubsection.
(2)Apersonwhocontravenestheprovisionsofsubsection(1)ofthissectioncommitsan
offenceandisliableonconvictiontoafinenotexceedingthirtythousandnairaortoimprisonmentfora
termnotexceedingthreeyearortobothsuchfineandimprisonment.
(3)Notwithstandingtheprovisionsofsubsection(2)ofthissection,anadoptionorderaffected
bythepaymentprohibitedundersubsection(1)ofthissectionmaybeallowedtocontinueorbe
resolvedatthediscretionoftheCourthavingregardtoallthecircumstancesofthecaseparticularlythe
bestinterestofthechild.
144. RestrictiononinterStateadoption
(1)Exceptunderalicenceissuedpursuanttosection145ofthisAct,nopersonshallpermitor
causeorprocurethecareandpossessionofachildtobegiventoanypersonoutsidetheStateinwhich
theadoptionorderwasmadewithaviewtogettingthechildadoptedbyanyperson.
(2)Apersonwhopermitsorcausesorprocuresthepossessionofachildtobegiventoany
person
(a) outsidetheStateinwhichthefosteringorderwasmadeor
(b) outsideNigeriawithintenttogettingthatchildfosteredbythatpersoncommitsan
offence.
(3)Apersonwhocontravenestheprovisionsofsubsection(i)ofthissectioncommitsand
offenceandisliableonconvictiontoafineofthirtythousandNairaorimprisonmentforatermnot
exceedingoneyearortobothsuchfineandimprisonment.
(4)Apersonwhocommitsanoffenceundersubsection(2)ofthissectionisliableonconviction
toatermof
(a) inthecaseofanoffenceundersubsection(2)(a)ofthissection,toimprisonmentfora
termoftenyears;
(b) inthecaseofanoffenceundersubsection(2)(b)ofthissectiontoimprisonmentfora
termoffifteenyears.
145. LicencetogivechildforinterStateadoption
(1)Subjecttothissection,theMinistermaygrantalicenceforachildtobetransferredtoa
person,subjecttosuchconditionsandrestrictionsashemaythinkfitauthorisingthecareand
protectionofachildforwhominterstateadoptionarrangementshavebeenmade.
(2)Alicenceshallnotbegrantedundersubsection(1)ofthissectionunlesstheMinisteris
satisfied,asrespectseverypersonwhoseconsentisrequiredundersection132ofthisActtothemaking
ofanadoptionorderforthechild,that
(a) theapplicationforthelicenceismadewiththeconsentofthatperson:or
(b) theconsentofthatpersoncanproperlybedispensedwithonanygroundonwhichthe
Courtcoulddispensewithaconsenttoanadoptionorderunderthatsection,
(3)AlicenceshallnotbegrantedunderthissectionunlesstheMinisterissatisfied
(a) thatthepersontowhomthecareandpossessionofthechildisproposedtobe
transferredisasuitableperson,undertheprovisionofthisAct,tobeentrustedwiththe
child;and
(b) thatthetransferisforthewelfareandbestinterestofthechild.
(4)TheMinistershall,ingrantingalicenceunderthissection,haveconsiderationtothewishes
ofthechildhavingregardtotheageandunderstandingofthechild.
146. Recognitionofotheradoption
WhereapersonhasbeenadoptedunderanylawinforceinanyPartofNigeria,orunderthe
lawofanyothercountryotherthanNigeria,theadoptionshallhavethelikelyvalidityandeffectasifthe
adoptionhasbeeneffectedbyanadoptionorderunderthisAct.
147. Adoptedparents,etc.,prohibitedfrommarryingadoptedchild
(1)AmarriagebetweenapersonwhohasadoptedachildunderthisActoranaturalchildofthe
personwhoadoptedthechildandtheadoptedchildisherebyprohibitedandanysuchmarriageshallbe
nullandvoid.
(2)Apersonwhomarriesanadoptedchildinviolationofsubsection(i)ofthissectioncommits
anoffenceandisliableonconvictiontoimprisonmentforatermofnotexceedingfourteenyears.
148. Visitofadoptedchilddevelopmentofficers
(1)TheDirectorofChildDevelopmentintheStateMinistryshallkeephimselfinformedfroma
timetotime,oftheconditionandwelfareofachildadoptedbyanypersonintheStateandarrangefor
officersofhisDepartmenttodoalloranyofthefollowing
(a) topayperiodicvisitsatreasonabletimes,toeverychildadoptedunderthisAct;
(b) toenteranypremisesforthepurposeofascertainingwhetherthereisany
contraventionbyanypersonofanyconditionoradoptionimposedinanadoptionorder
oranyprovisionofthisActinrelationtoanadoptedchild.
(2)Duringanyvisitundersubsection(1)ofthissection,theofficerpayingthevisitmayrequire
productionoftheadoptedchildorthatinformationbegivenregardingtheconditionofthechild.
(3)Apersonwho
(a) withoutreasonableexcuse,failstocomplywitharequirementimposedbyachild
developmentofficer;or
(b) obstructsachilddevelopmentofficerintheexerciseofthepowersconferredbythis
sectioncommitsanoffenceandisliableonconvictiontoafinenotexceedingfive
hundredNairaorimprisonmentnotexceedingthreemonthsortobothsuchfineand
imprisonment.
PARTXIII
TheFamilyCourt
149. EstablishmentoftheFamilyCourt
ThereshallbeestablishedforeachStateoftheFederationandtheFederalCapitalTerritory,
AbujaacourttobeknownastheFamilyCourt(inthisActreferredtoastheCourt)forthepurposesof
hearinganddeterminingmattersrelatingtochildren.
150. Courttohavetwolevels
TheCourtshallbeattwolevels
(a) theCourtasaDivisionoftheHighCourtattheHighCourtlevel:and
(b) TheCourtasaMagistrateCourt,attheMagistratelevel.
151. Generaljurisdiction
(1)SubjecttotheprovisionsofthisActandinadditiontosuchotherjurisdictionasmaybe
conferredonitbyanyotherlaw,theCourtshallhaveunlimitedjurisdictiontohearanddetermine
(a) anycivilproceedinginwhichtheexistenceorextentofalegalright,powerduty,liability
privilegeinterest,obligationorclaiminrespectofachildisinissue;and
(b) anycriminalproceedinginvolvingorrelatingtoanypenalty,forfeiture,punishmentor
otherliabilityinrespectofanoffencecommittedbyachild,againstachildoragainst
theinterestofachild.
(2)Thereferencetocivilorcriminalproceedingsinthissectionincludesareferencetoa
proceedingwhichoriginatesintheCourtandthatwhichisbroughtbytheCourtattheHighCourtlevel
tobedealtwithbytheCourtintheexerciseofitsappellateorsupervisoryjurisdiction,
(3)TheCourtshall,inanymatterrelatingtooraffectingachildorafamilyandatallstagesof
anyproceedingsbeforeit
(a) beguidedbytheprincipleofconciliationofthepartiesinvolvedorlikelytobeaffected
bytheresultoftheproceedings,including.
(i) thechild,
(ii) theparentsorguardianofthechild,and
(iii) anyotherpersonhavingparentalorotherresponsibilityforthechild;and
(b) encourageandfacilitatethesettlementofthematterbeforeitinanamicablemanner.
152. FamilyCourtattheHighCourtlevel
(1)TheCourtattheHighCourtlevelshallconsistofsuchmemberof
(a) JudgesoftheHighCourtoftheStateandtheFederalCapitalTerritory,Abuja;and
(b) assessors,whoshallbeofficersnotbelowtherankofChiefChildDevelopmentOfficers,
asshallenabletheCourttoeffectivelyperformitsfunctionsunderthisAct.
(2)ThemembersoftheCourtattheHighCourtlevelshallbeappointedbyChiefJudgeofthe
StateandinthecaseoftheFederalCapitalTerritory,Abuja,theChiefJudgeoftheHighCourtofthe
FederalCapitalTerritory.Abuja.
(3)TheCourtattheHighCourtlevelshallbedulyconstitutedifitconsistsof
(a) aJudge;and
(b) twoassessors,oneofwhomhasattributesofdealingwithchildrenandmattersrelating
tochildrenpreferablyintheareaofchildpsychologyeducation.
(4)TheCourtattheHighCourtlevelshallhavepowerto
(a) dealwithallmattersrelatingtotheenforcementoftherightsofthechildassetoutin
thisActontheapplicationforredressbyachildwhoallegesthatarighthasbeen,is
being,orislikelytobeinfringedinrespectofhim;
(b) dealwithalloffencespunishablewith
(i)death,or
(ii)termsofimprisonmentforatermoftenyearsandabove;
(c) dealwithothermattersrelatingtoachildwheretheclaiminvolvesanamountoffifty
thousandNairaandabove;
(d) dealwithdivorceandcustodyofthechild;and
(e) hearappealsfromtheCourtattheMagisteriallevel.
(5)AppealsshalllietotheCourtofAppealonanymatterdecidedbytheCourtattheHighCourt
levelinthesamemannerasappealslieinrespectofmattersdecidedbytheHighCourt.
153. FamilyCourtattheMagistrateCourtlevel
(1)TheCourtattheMagisteriallevelshallconsistofsuchnumberof
(a) Magistrates,notbelowtherankofChiefmagistrate;and
(b) assessors,whoshallbeofficersnotbelowtherankofSeniorChildDevelopmentOfficer,
asshallenabletheCourttoeffectivelyperformitsfunctionsunderthisAct.
(2)ThemembersoftheCourtattheMagisteriallevelshallbeappointedbytheChiefJudgeof
theStateandinthecaseoftheFederalcapitalTerritory,Abuja,theChiefJudgeoftheHighCourt.
(3)TheCourtattheMagisteriallevelshallbedulyconstitutedifitconsistsof
(a) aMagistrate;
(b) twoassessors,oneofwhomshallbeawomanandtheotherpersonwhohasattributes
ofdealingwithchildrenandmattersrelatingtochildren,preferablyintheareaofchild
psychologyeducation,
(4)TheCourtattheMagisteriallevelhaspowertotryoffencesanddealwithallmattersnot
specificallyassignedtotheCourtattheHighCourtlevelunderSectionl52ofthisAct.
(5)AppealslietotheCourtattheHighCourtlevelfromadecisionoftheCourtattheMagisterial
levelinthesamemannerasappealsliefromthedecisionsofMagistratesCourtstotheHighCourtofthe
State.
154. ProfessionalisationandtrainingofCourtpersonnel
(1)ThepersonneloftheCourtshallbeaffordedprofessionaleducation,inservicetraining,
refreshercoursesandothermodesofinstructiontopromoteandenhancethenecessaryprofessional
competencetheyrequire.
(2)Thecontentsoftheeducation,trainingandcoursesreferredtoinSubsection(1)ofthis
sectionshallbesuchasshallreflectthediversityofthechildrenwhocomeintocontactwithandthe
diversityandcomplexityofmatterdealtwithbytheCourt.
(3)InconstitutingaCourthandlingamatterconcerningachild,considerationshallbegivento
thecircumstancesandtheneedsofthechild,particularlytheage,sex,religionorotherspecial
characteristicsofthechild.
155. Righttocounsel,etc.
Achildhastherighttoberepresentedbyalegalpractitionerandtofreelegalaidinthehearingand
determinationofanymatterconcerningthechildintheCourt.
156. Exclusionofpersonsfromattendingcourt
Noperson,otherthan
(a) themembersandofficersoftheCourt;
(b) thepartiestothecase,theirsolicitorsandcounsel;
(c) parentsorguardianofthechild;and
(d) otherpersonsdirectlyconcernedinthecase,
shallbeallowedtoattendtheCourt,and,accordingly,memberofthepressareexcludedfromattending
aCourt
157. Prohibitionofpublicationofchildsname,etc.
(1)Nopersonshallpublishthename,address,school,photograph,oranythinglikelytoleadto
theidentificationofachildwhosematterisbeforetheCourtexceptinsofarasisrequiredbythe
provisionsofthisAct.
(2)Apersonwhoactsincontraventionoftheprovisionsofthissectioncommitsanoffenceand
isliableonconvictiontoafineoffiftythousandnairaorimprisonmentforatermoffiveyearsortoboth
suchfineandimprisonment.
158. Proceedingstobeintheinterestofthechild
TheproceedingsintheCourtshallbeconducivetothebestinterestofthechildandshallbe
conductedinatmosphereofunderstanding;allowingthechildtoexpresshimselfandparticipateinthe
proceedings.
159. Attendanceofparents,guardiansorchildatthehearingintheCourt
(1)InanyproceedingsinwhichtheCourtishearinganapplicationforanorderunderthisAct,or
isconsideringwhethertomakeanorder,theCourtmayordertheparents,guardianorthechild
concernedtoattendsuchstageorstagesoftheproceedingasmaybespecifiedintheorder.
(2)Thepowerconferredbysubsection(1)ofthissectionshallbeexercisedinaccordancewith
therulesoftheCourt.
(3)Whereanordermadeundersubsection(1)ofthissectionhasnotbeencompliedwithorthe
courthasreasonablecausetobelievethatitwillnotbecompliedwith,theCourtmay
(a) makeanorderauthorisingapoliceofficerorsuchperson,asmaybespecifiedinthe
orderto
(i) takechargeofthechildandtobringhimtotheCourt,and
(ii) enterandsearchanypremisesspecifiedintheorderifhehasreasonablecause
tobelievethatthechildmaybefoundonthepremises;or
(b) orderanypersonwhoisinapositiontodosotobringthechildtothecourt
(4)WheretheCourthasreasontobelievethatapersonhasinformationaboutthewhereabouts
ofchild,itmaybyorderrequirethepersontodisclosesuchinformationtotheCourt.
(5)Apersonwhorefusestocomplywithanordermadeunderthissectioncommitsanoffence
andisliableonconvictiontoafinenotexceedingfifteenthousandnairaortoimprisonmentforaterm
notexceedingeighteenmonthsortobothsuchfineandimprisonment.
160. Evidencegivingbyachild
(1)Inanyproceedings,whethercivilorcriminal,theevidenceofachildmaybegivenunsworn
(2)Adepositionofachildsswornevidenceshallbetakenforthepurposesofanyproceedings,
whethercivilorcriminal,asifthatevidencehadbeengivenonoath.
161. Rulesforprocedures,fees,etc.
(1)TheChiefJusticeofNigeriamaymakerulesregulatingtheprocedureintheCourttheparties
entitledtoparticipateinanyproceedings,thefeestobechargedandtheformstobeusedin
proceedings.
(2)TheprovisionsofanywrittenlawrelatingtothepracticeandprocedureinMagistrateCourts
orHighCourts,asthecasemaybe,notinconsistentwiththeprovisionsofthisActshallhaveeffectwith
respecttoproceedingsintheCourt.
162. Exclusivejurisdiction
(1)NootherCourt,excepttheFamilyCourt,shallexercisejurisdictioninanymatterrelatingto
childrenasarespecifiedinthisAct.
(2)Theprovisionsofsubsection(1)ofthissectionshallnotaffectthejurisdictionofthenormal
criminalcourtstotrycasesoroffencesbyadultoffendersasspecifiedinPartIIIofthisActoranyother
law.
PARTXIV
ChildMindingandDayCareofYoungChildren
163. Registration,etc.,ofchildmindinganddaycarecentre
(1)EveryStateGovernmentshallkeeparegisterintowhichshallbeenteredthenamesand
otherparticularsofpersonswho
(a) actaschildmindersondomesticpremiseswithintheareaoftheappropriateauthority:
and
(b) providedaycareforchildrenundertheageofsixyearsonpremisesotherthan
domesticpremiseswithintheareasoftheStateGovernment.
(2)Aperson
(a) actsaschildminderif
(i) thepersonlooksafteroneormorechildrenundertheageofsixyears,for
reward,and
(ii) theperiod,orthetotaloftheperiods,whichthepersonspendsinlookingafter
thechildrenindayexceedstwohours;and
(b) providesdaycareforchildreniftheperiod,orthetotaloftheperiodsduringwhich
childrenarelookedafterbythepersoninanydayexceedstwohours.
(3)Whereapersonprovidesdaycareforchildrenundertheageofsixyearsondifferent
premisessituatedwithinthesameState,thepersonshallmakeaseparateapplicationwithrespectto
eachofthosepremises.
(4)Apersonwho
(a) istheparent,orarelative,ofachild;
(b) though,nottheparentofachild,hasparentalresponsibilityforthechild;or
(c) isafosterparentofachild,isnotachildminderforthepurposesofthisPartwhen
lookingafterthechild.
(5)Whereapersonisemployedasanannyforachild,shedoesnotactasachildminderwhen
lookingafterthatchildwhollyormainlyinthehomeofthepersonsoemployingher.
(6)Whereapersonisemployedbytwodifferentemployers,shedoesnotactasachildminder
lookingafteranyofthechildrenconcernedwhollyormainlyinthehomeofeitherofheremployers.
(7)Apersonwhowishestobeenteredintheregisterkeptundersubsection(1)ofthissection
shallapplyinwritingtotheStateGovernmenttobesoregistered.
(8)AStateGovernmentmayrefusetoregisteranapplicantundersubsection(1)(a)ofthis
section,ifitissatisfiedthat
(a) theapplicant;or
(b) apersonlookingafter,orlikelytobelookingafter,childrenonthepremisesonwhich
theapplicantis,orislikelytobe,childminding,
isnotfittolookafterchildrenundertheageofsixyears.
(9)AStateGovernmentmayalsorefusetoregisteranapplicantundersubsection(1)(a)ofthis
section,ifitissatisfiedthat
(a) living,orlikelytobeliving;or
(b) employed,orlikelytobeemployed,atanypremisesonwhichtheapplicantis,orlikely
tobe,childmindingisnotfittobeintheproximityofchildrenundertheageofsix
years.
(10)AStateGovernmentmayrefusetoregisteranapplicantundersubsection(1)(b)ofthis
sectionifitissatisfiedthatapersonlookingafter,orlikelytolookafter,childrenonthepremisesto
whichtheapplicationrelatesisnotfittolookafterchildrenundertheageofsixyears.
(11)AStateGovernmentmayalsorefusetoregisteranapplicantundersubsection(1)(b)ofthis
section,ifitissatisfiedthataperson
(a) living,orlikelytobeliving;or
(b) employed,orlikelytobeemployed,atthepremisestowhichtheapplicationrelates,is
notfittobeintheproximityofchildrenundertheageofsixyears.
(12)AStateGovernmentmayrefusetoregisteranapplicantunderthissectionifitissatisfied
(a) inthecaseofapplicationundersubsection(1)(a)ofthissection,thatthepremiseson
whichtheapplicantis,orislikelytobe,childminding;or
(b) inthecaseofanapplicationundersubsection(1)(b)ofthissection,thatthepremisesto
whichtheapplicationrelates,
isnotfittobeusedforlookingafterchildrenundertheageofsixyears,whetherbecauseofthe
conditionofthepremisesortheconditionofanyequipmentusedonthepremisesorforanyreason
connectedwiththesituation,construction,styleorlocationofthepremises.
(13)Forthepurposesofthissection,apersonactsasanannyforachildifsheisemployedto
lookafterthechildby
(a) aparentofthechild;or
(b)apersonwho,thoughisnotaparentofthechildhasparentalresponsibilityforthechild.
(14)Aregisterkeptunderthissection
(a) shallbeopentoinspectionbymembersofthepublicatallreasonabletimes;and
(b) maybekeptbymeansoracomputer.
(15)TheprovisionsofPartVIofFourthSchedulesand6tothisActshallhaveeffectforthe
purposeFourthofmakingfurtherprovisionswithrespecttoregistrationunderthissection,including,in
particular,furtherprovisionsforexemptionfromtherequirementtoberegisteredandprovisionsfor
disqualification.
[FourthSchedule]
164. Conditionstobecompliedwithbychildminders
(1)WhereaStateGovernmentregistersapersonundersection163(1)(a)ofthisAct,itshallin
additiontotherequirementssetoutinsubsection(2)ofthissectionimposeSuchreasonableconditions
onthepersonasitconsidersappropriateineachcase.
(2)AStateGovernmentshallonregisteringachildminder
(a) specifythatthemaximumnumberofchildren,orthemaximumnumberofchildren
withinspecifiedagegroups,whomthechildmindermaylookafterwhenactingaschild
mindershallbefive;
(b) requirethechildmindertosecurethatanypremisesonwhichhesolooksafterthe
children,andtheequipmentusedonthosepremises,areadequatelymaintainedand
keptsafe;
(c) requirethechildmindertokeeparecordofthenameandaddressofevery
(i) childbeinglookedafterbyhimonanypremiseswithintheareaoftheState
Government.
(ii) personwhoassistsinlookingafterthechild,and
(iii) personliving,orwhoislikelyatanytimetolivethosepremises;
(d) requirethechildmindertonotifytheStateGovernmentinwritingofanychangeinthe
namesandaddressesofpersonsmentionedinparagraph(c)(ii)and(iii)ofthis
subsection.
(3)AStateGovernmentmay,atanytimevary,anyconditionimposedbyitunderthissection
(4)TheMinistermay,byregulations,makeprovisionsasto
(a) conditionswhichshallbeimposedbyStateGovernmentsunderthissectionin
prescribedcircumstances;
(b) conditionsofsuchdescriptionsasmaybeprescribedwhichshallnotbeimposedby
StateGovernmentsunderthissection;
(c) theannualfeespayableinrespectofregistrationandinspectionofpremises.
165. Conditionstobecompliedwithbypersonsprovidingdaycareforchildren
(1)WhereaStateGovernmentregistersapersonundersection163(1)ofthisAct,itshall,in
additiontotherequirementssetoutinsubsection(3)ofthissection,imposesuchreasonableconditions
onthepersonasitconsidersappropriateineachcase.
(2)Whereapersonisregisteredundersection163(1)(b)ofthisActwithrespecttodifferent
premiseswithintheareaofthesameStateGovernment,thissectionshallapplyseparatelyinrelationto
eachregistration.
(3)AStateGovernmentshallonregisteringapersonprovidingdaycareforchildren
(a) specifythemaximumnumberofchildren,orthemaximumnumberofchildrenwithin
specifiedagegroups,whomaybelookedafteronthepremises;
(b) requirethepersontosecurethatthepremisesonwhichhesolooksafterthechildren
andtheequipmentusedonthosepremises,areadequatelymaintainedandkeptsafe;
(c) requirethepersontonotifytheStateGovernmentinwritingofanychangeinthe
facilitieswhichheprovidesorintheperiodduringwhichheprovidesthosefacilities
(d) specifythenumberofpersonsrequiredtoassistinlookingafterchildrenonthe
premises;
(e) requirethepersontokeeparecordofthenameandaddressofevery
(i) childlookedafter;
(ii) Apersonwhoassistsinlookingafterthechild;and
(iii) personwholivesorislikelyatanytimetolive,ontheregisteredpremises;
(f) requirethepersontonotifytheStateGovernmentinwritingofanychangeinthenames
andaddressofapersonmentionedinparagraph(e)(ii)and(iii)ofthissubsection.
(4)Indeterminingthemaximumnumberofchildrentobespecifiedundersubsection(3)(a)of
thissection,theStateGovernmentshalltakeaccountofthenumberofotherchildrenwhomayatany
timebeonthepremises
(5)AStateGovernmentmayatanytimevary,removeoraddtoanyoftheconditionsimposed
underthissection
(6)TheMinistermay,byregulations,makeprovisionastoconditions
(a) whichshallbeimposedbyStateGovernmentsunderthissectioninprescribed
circumstances;
(b) ofsuchdescriptionsasmaybeprescribedwhichshallnotbeimposedbyState
Governmentsunderthissection.
(7)Insubsection(3)ofthissectionreferencestochildrenlookedafterarereferencestochildren
lookedafterinaccordancewiththeprovisionofdaycaremadebytheregisteredperson
166. Cancellationofregistrationofachildminder
(1)TheStateGovernmentmayatanytimecanceltheregistrationofachildminderif
(a) itappearstotheStateGovernmentthatthecircumstancesofthecasearesuchthatthe
StateGovernmentwouldbejustifiedinrefusingtoregisterthatpersonasachild
minder;or
(b) thecareprovidedbythatpersonwhenlookingafteranychildasachildminderisinthe
opinionoftheStateGovernmentseriouslyinadequatehavingregardtotheneedsof
thatchild;or
(c) thechildminderhas
(i) contravenedorfailedtocomplywithanyrequirementoforconditions
imposedonhimundersection165ofthisAct;
(ii) failedtopayanyannualteeunderparagraph7oftheSixthScheduletothisAct
withintheprescribedtime.
[SixthSchedule]
(2)TheStateGovernmentmayatanytimecanceltheregistrationofpersonprovidingdaycare
forchildrenwithrespecttoparticularpremisesif
(a) itappearstotheStateGovernmentthatthecircumstancesofthecasearesuchthatit
wouldbejustifiedinrefusingtoregisterthatpersonasapersonprovidingdaycare;
(b) thecareprovidedbythatpersonwhenonthepremisesis,intheopinionoftheState
Governmentseriouslyinadequatehavingregardtotheneedsofthechildrenconcerned;
or
(c) thatpersonhas
(i) contravenedorfailedtocomplywithanyrequirementoforconditionimposed
onhimundersection165ofthisAct;or
(ii) failedtopayanyannualfeeunderparagraph7ofSchedule6tothisActwithin
theprescribedtime.
(3)TheStateGovernmentmayatanytimecanceltheregistrationofpersonprovidingdaycare
forchildrenifitappearstoitthatthecircumstancesofthecasearesuchthatItwouldbejustifiedin
refusingtoregisterthatpersonwithrespecttoanypremises.
(4)Whereaconditiontocarryoutrepairsormakealterationsoradditionshasbeenimposedon
aregisteredpersonundersection164or165ofthisAct,hisregistrationshallnotbecanceledonthe
groundthatthepremisesarenotfittobeusedforlookingafterchildrenif
(a) thetimesetforcomplyingwiththeconditionhasnotexpired;and
(b) itisshownthattheconditionofthepremisesisduetotherepairsnothavingbeen
carriedoutorthealterationoradditionsnothavingbeenmade.
(5)Acancellationunderthissectionshallbeinwriting.
(6)Inconsideringtheneedsofachildforthepurposesofsubsection(1)(b)or(2)(b)ofthis
section,aStateGovernmentshallinparticularhaveregardtothereligiouspersuasionandculturaland
linguisticbackgroundofthechild.
167. Protectionofchildren,emergencycasesofcancellationofregistration,etc.
(1)WhereanapplicationismadetotheCourtforanorder
(a) cancelingaregisteredpersonsregistration;
(b) varyinganyconditionimposedonaregisteredpersonundersection164or165ofthis
Act;or
(c) removingaconditionorimposinganadditionalconditiononsuchaperson,
theCourtmaymaketheorderifitappearstotheCourtthatachildwhoisbeing,ormaybe,looked
afterbyaperson,orasthecasemaybe,inaccordancewiththeprovisionforchildmindingordaycare,
issuffering,orislikelytosuffer,significantharm.
(2)Anycancellationvariationremovalorimpositionordermadeunderthissectionshallhave
effectfromthedateonwhichtheorderismade.
(3)Anapplicationundersubsection(1)ofthissectionmaybeexparteandshallbesupportedby
awrittenstatementoftheStateGovernmentsreasonsformakingit.
(4)Whereanorderismadeunderthissection,theStateGovernmentshallserveonthe
registeredperson,assoonasisreasonablypracticable,afterthemakingoftheorder
(a) noticeoftheorderandofitsterms;and
(b) acopyofthestatementoftheStateGovernmentsreasonswhichsupportedits
applicationfortheorder.
(5)WheretheCourtimposesorvariesanyconditionundersubsection(1)ofthissection,the
condition,ortheconditionasvaried,shallbetreatedforallpurposes,otherthanforthepurposeof
section173ofthisAct,asifithadbeenimposedundersection164or165ofthisAct,bytheState
Governmentconcerned.
168. PowersoftheStateGovernmenttoinspectpremises,etc.
(1)ApersonauthorisedtodosobyaStateGovernmentmayatanyreasonabletime,enter
(a) anydomesticpremiseswithintheStateinwhichchildmindingisatanytime,carriedon
;or
(b) anypremiseswithinaStateinwhichdaycareforchildrenisatanytime,provided.
(2)WhereaStateGovernmenthasreasonablecausetobelievethatachildisbeinglookedafter
onanypremiseswithintheStateincontraventionofthisPartofthisActapersonauthorisedtodosoby
theStateGovernmentmayenterthepremisesatanyreasonabletime
(3)Apersonenteringanypremisesunderthissectionmayinspect
(a) thepremises;
(b) childbeinglookedafteronthepremises;
(c) thearrangementsmadeforthehealthwelfareofthechildbeinglookedafteronthe
premises;and
(d) anyrecordrelatingtothechildbeinglookedafteronthepremiseswhicharekeptasa
resultofthisPartofthisAct.
(4)Apersoninspectinganyrecordunderthissection
(a) shallbeentitledatanyreasonabletimetohaveaccesstoandinspectandcheckthe
operationofanycomputerandanyassociatedapparatusormaterialwhichisorhas
beeninuseinconnectionwiththerecordsinquestion;and
(b) mayrequire
(i) thepersonbywhomoronwhosebehalfthecomputerisorhasbeensoused,
or
(ii) anypersonhavingchargeof,orotherwiseconcernedwiththeoperationofthe
computerapparatusormaterial,
toaffordhimsuchreasonableassistanceashemayrequire,
(5)Apersonexercisinganypowerconferredbythissectionshall,ifsorequired,producesome
dulyauthenticateddocumentshowinghisauthoritytodoso.
(6)AStateGovernmentshallexerciseitspowertoinspectthepremisesmentionedinsubsection
(1)ofthissectionatleastonceeveryyear.
(7)Apersonwhointentionallyobstructsanotherpersonintheexerciseofanypowerconferred
underthissection,commitsanoffenceandisliableonsummaryconvictiontoafineoftwothousand
fivehundrednairaorimprisonmentforatermofthreemonthsortobothsuchfineandimprisonment.
169. StateGovernmenttogiveapplicantnoticeofactionitintendstotake
(1)TheStateGovernmentshall,notlessthanfourteendaysbeforetakinganyofthefollowing
steps
(a) refusinganapplicationforregistrationundersection167ofthisAct;or
(b) cancelinganyregistrationundersection163ofthisAct;or
(c) refusingconsentunderparagraph3oftheSixthScheduletothisAct;or
[SixthSchedule]
(d) imposing,removingorvaryinganyconditionunderSection168or169ofthisAct;
(e) refusingtograntanyapplicationforthevariationorremovalofanycondition,sendto
theapplicant,or,asthecasemaybe,aregisteredperson,noticeinwritingofits
intentiontotakethestepinquestion
(2)Anoticesentundersubsection(1)ofthissectionshall
(a) givetheStateGovernmentsreasonsforproposingtotakethestepand
(b) informthepersonconcernedofhisrightsunderthissection
(3)WheretherecipientofanoticeinformstheStateGovernmentinwritingofhisdesireto
objecttothestepbeingtaken,theStateGovernmentshallaffordhimanopportunitytodoso.
(4)Anyobjectionmadeundersubsection(3)ofthissectionmaybemadeinpersonorbya
representative.
(5)IftheStateGovernment,aftergivingthepersonconcernedanopportunitytoobjecttothe
stepbeingtaken,decidesneverthelesstotakeanystepitshallsendwrittennoticeofitsdecision.
(6)Apersonaggrievedbythetakingofanystepmentionedinsubsection(1)ofthissectionmay
appealagainstittotheCourt.
(7)WheretheCourtallowsanappealagainstarefusalorcancellationofanyregistrationunder
section166ofthisAct,itmayimposeanyconditionundersection164or165ofthisActorsuchother
conditionasitmaydeemfit.
(8)WheretheCourtallowsanappealagainstaconditionitmay,insteadofcancelingthe
condition,varyit.
(9)WheretheCourtimposesorvariesanyconditionundersubsection(7)or(8)ofthissection,
thecondition,asvaried,shallbetreatedforallpurposes,otherthanthissection,asifithadbeen
imposedbytheStateGovernmentconcerned.
(10)Astepreferredtoinsubsection(1)(b)or(d)ofthissectionshallnottakeeffectuntilthe
expiryofthetimewithinwhichanappealmaybebroughtunderthissectionorwheresuchanappealis
brought,beforeitsdetermination.
170. OffencesunderthisPart
(1)Nopersonshallprovidedaycareforchildrenundertheageofsixyearsinanypremises
withinaStateunlessheisregisteredbytheStateGovernmentundersection163(1)(b)ofthisActwith
respecttothepremises.
(2)ApersonwhocontravenesSubsection(1)ofthisSection,withoutreasonableexcuse,
commitsanoffence.
(3)Nopersonshallactasachildminderonanydomesticpremises:withinaStateunlessheis
registeredbytheStateGovernmentunderSection163(1)(a)ofthisAct.
(4)WhereitappearstoaStateGovernmentthatapersonhascontravenedsubsection(3)ofthis
section,itmayserveanenforcementnoticeonhim.
(5)Anenforcementnoticeshallhaveeffectforaperiodofsixmonthsbeginningwiththedate
onwhichitisserved.
(6)Apersonwithrespecttowhomanenforcementnoticeisinforcewhocontravenes
subsection(3)ofthissectionwithoutreasonableexcuse,commitsanoffence.
(7)Subsection(6)applieswhetherornotthesubsequentcontraventionoccurswithinthearea
oftheStateGovernmentwhichservedtheenforcementnotice.
(8)Apersonwhowithoutreasonableexcusecontravenesorotherwisefailstocomplywithany
conditionimposedonhundersection164or165ofthisAct,commitsanoffence.
(9)Apersonwho
(a) actsasachildminderonanydomesticpremisesatanytimewhenheisdisqualifiedby
regulationsmadeunderparagraph2oftheSixthScheduletothisAct;or
[SixthSchedule]
(b) contravenesanyprovisionofsubparagraph(3),(4)or(5)ofparagraph2oftheSixth
ScheduletothisAct,
[SixthSchedule]
commitsanoffence.
(10)Apersonwhocontravenessubparagraph(3)ofparagraph2oftheSixthScheduletothis
Actisnotguiltyofanoffenceunderthissectionifheprovesthathedidnotknow,andhasno
reasonablegroundforbelieving,thatthepersoninquestionwaslivingoremployedinthehousehold.
[SixthSchedule]
(11)Apersonwhocontravenessubparagraph(5)ofparagraph2oftheSixthScheduletothis
Act,isnotguiltyofanoffenceunderthissectionifheprovesthathedidnotknowthattheperson
whomhewasemployingwasdisqualified.
[SixthSchedule]
(12)Apersonwho,commitsanoffenceunderthissectionisliableonsummaryconviction
(a) inthecaseofanoffenceundersubsection(8)ofthissection,toafinenotexceedingfive
thousandnairaorimprisonmentoratermnotexceedingsixmonthsortobothsuchfine
andimprisonment;
(b) inthecaseofanoffenceundersubsection(9)ofthissection,tofinenotexceedingten
thousandnairaorimprisonmentforatermnotexceedingoneyearortobothsuchfine
toimprisonment;
(c) inthecaseofanyotheroffence,toafinenotexceedingtwothousand,fivehundred
nairaorimprisonmentforatermofthreemonthsortobothsuchfineand
imprisonment.
PARTXV
StateGovernmentSupportforChildrenandFamilies
171. ProvisionofservicesforChildreninneed,etc.
(1)AStateGovernmentshall,generally
(a) safeguardandpromotethewelfareofthechildreninneedwithinthatState;and
(b) sofarasisconsistentwiththatduty,promotetheupbringingofthosechildrenbytheir
families,byprovidingarangeandlevelofservicesappropriatetotheneedsofthe
children.
(2)TheStateGovernmentshallalsoencourageprivateorganisationwhomaywishtoprovide
servicesforchildreninneedtoprovidesuchservicesasmaybepermittedbytheStateGovernment.
(3)AnyserviceprovidedbytheStateGovernmentinthedischargeofitsdutyunderthissection
maybeprovidedforthefamilyofaparticularchildinneedorforamemberofthefamilyofthechild,if
theserviceisprovidedwithaviewtosafeguardingorpromotingthewelfareofthechild.
(4)EveryStateGovernmentshall,forthepurposeoffacilitatingthedischargeofitsgeneralduty
underthissection,havethedutiesandpowerssetoutinPartIoftheseventhScheduletothisAct.
[SeventhSchedule]
(5)TheMinistermaybyorderamenddutiesandpowerssetoutinPart1oftheSeventh
ScheduletothisAct.
[SeventhSchedule]
(6)EveryStateGovernment
(a) shallfacilitatetheprovisionbyvoluntaryorganisationsandotherbodiesofservices
whichtheStateGovernmenthaspowertoprovidebyvirtueofsectionsl77,178;182
and183ofthisAct;and
(b) maymakesucharrangementsasitdeemsfitforanypersontoactonitsbehalfinthe
provisionofanyofthoseservices.
(7)TheservicesprovidedbyaStateGovernmentinthedischargeofitsdutyunderthissection
mayincludethegivingofassistanceinkindorinexceptionalcases,incash,andtheassistancemaybe
conditionalorunconditional.
(8)Beforegivingassistanceorimposinganyconditionunderthissection,aStateGovernment
shallhaveregardtothemeansofthechildconcernedandofeachofhisparents.
(9)Nopersonshallbeliabletomakeanyrepaymentofassistanceorofitsvalueatanytime
whenheisinreceiptofincomesupportoranyformofsupportfrompublicfunds.
(10)ForthepurposesofthissectionandothersectionsofthisPartofthisAct
(a) achildshallbetakentobeinneedif
(i) thechildisunlikelytoachieveormaintainortohavetheopportunityof
achievingormaintainingareasonablestandardofhealthordevelopment
withouttheprovision,forthechild,ofservicesbytheStateGovernmentunder
thisPartofthisAct,or
(ii) thehealthanddevelopmentofthechildislikelytobesignificantlyimpairedor
furtherimpairedwithouttheprovision,forthechild,ofservicesprovidedfor
underthisPartofthisAct,or
(iii) thechildisdisabled,internallydisplaced,arefugeeorisotherwiseinespecially
difficultcircumstances;.
(b) achildisdisabledifthechildisblind,deafordumborsuffersfrommentaldisorderof
anykindorissubstantiallyandpermanentlyhandicappedbyillness,injuryorcongenital
deformityorotherdisabilityasmaybeprescribed;
172. Daycareforpreschoolchildren
(1)AStateGovernmentshallprovidesuchdaycareforchildreninneedwithintheStatewho
are
(a) notmorethansixyearsold;and
(b) notyetattendingschool,asisappropriate.
(2)AStateGovernmentmayprovidedaycareforchildrenwithintheStatewhosatisfythe
conditionsmentionedinsubsection(1)(a)and(b)ofthissectionnotwithstandingthatthosechildren
arenotinneed
(3)AStateGovernmentmayprovidefacilities,includingtraining,advice,guidanceand
counseling,forpersons
(a) caringforchildrenindaycare;or
(b) whoatanytimeaccompanythosechildrenwhiletheyareindaycare.
(4)AStateGovernmentshallprovideforachildinneedwithintheStatewhois,attendingany
schoolsuchcareorsupervisedactivitiesasisappropriate
(a) outsideschoolhours;or
(b) duringschoolholidays.
(5)AStateGovernmentmayprovidesuchcareorsupervisedactivitiesforchildrenwithinthe
Statewhoareattendinganyschoolnotwithstandingthatthosechildrenarenotinneed,
173. Reviewofprovisionfordaycare,childrenminding,etc.
(1)AStateGovernmentshallreview
(a) servicesprovidedbyitundersection175ofthisAct;
(b) theextenttowhichtheservicesofchildmindersareavailablewithinthestatewith
respecttochildrenundertheageofsixyears;and
(c) theprovisionfordaycarewithintheStatemadeforchildrenundertheageofsixyears
bypersons,otherthantheauthority,requiredtoregisterundersection163(1)(b)of
thisAct.
(2)Areviewundersubsection(1)ofthissectionshallbeconducted
(a) togetherwiththeappropriatelocaleducationauthority;and
(b) atleastonceineveryreviewperiod.
(3)AstateGovernmentshall,atleastonceineveryreviewperiod,review
(a) theprovisionsmadefordaycarewithintheatemadeforchildrenundertheageofsix
yearsbytheappropriateauthorityandbypersonsrequiredtoregisterundersection
163(1)(b)ofthisAct;
(b) theextenttowhichtheservicesofchildmindersareavailablewithintheStatewith
respecttochildrenundertheageofsixyears.
(4)Inconductingareviewunderthissection,theStateGovernmentshallhaveregardtothe
provisionmadewithrespecttothechildrenundertheageofsixyearsinrelevantestablishmentswithin
theState.
(5)WhereaStateGovernmentconductsareviewunderthissection,itshallpublishtheresultof
thereview
(a) assoonasisreasonablypracticable;
(b) insuchformasitconsidersappropriate;and
(c) togetherwithanyproposalsitmayhavewithrespecttothemattersreviewed.
(6)AStateGovernmentconductingareviewunderthissectionshallhaveregardto
(a) anyrepresentationsmadetoitbyanyrelevanthealthauthorityorhealthboard;and
(b) anyotherrepresentationswhichitconsiderstoberelevant.
174. Provisionofaccommodationforchildreningeneral
(1)AStateGovernmentshallprovideaccommodationforachildinneedwithintheStatewho
appearstoittorequireaccommodationwhere
(a) thereisnopersonhaveparentalresponsibilityforthechild;or
(b) thechildislostorhasbeenabandonedorrunsawayfromhome;or
(c) thepersonwhohascareforthechildisprevented,foranyreasonwhatsoever,from
providingthechildwithaccommodationorcare.
(2)WhereaStateGovernmentprovidesaccommodationundersubsection(1)ofthissectionfor
achildwhoisordinarilyresidentinanotherState,thatotherStateGovernmentmaytakeoverthe
provisionofaccommodationforthechildwithin
(a) threemonthsofbeingnotifiedinwritingthatthechildisbeingprovided
accommodation;or
(b) suchotherlongerperiodasmaybeprescribed.
(3)AStateGovernmentshallprovideaccommodationforachildwithintheState
(a) whosewelfaretheappropriateauthorityconsidersislikelytobeseriouslyprejudicedif
theStateGovernmentdoesnotprovidethechildwithaccommodation;or
(b) iftheStateGovernmentconsidersthattoprovidethechildaccommodationwould
safeguardorpromotethewelfareofthechildnotwithstandingthatthepersonwhohas
parentalresponsibilityforthechildisabletoprovidehimaccommodation.
(4)Beforedecidingtoprovideaccommodationunderthissection,aStateGovernmentshall,so
farasisreasonablypracticableandconsistentwiththewelfareofthechild
(a) ascertainthewishesofthechildregardingtheprovisionofaccommodation;and
(b) givendueconsideration,havingregardtohisageandunderstanding,tosuchwishesof
thechildasithasbeenabletoascertain.
(5)AStateGovernmentshallnotprovideaccommodationunderthissectionforachildifa
personwho
(a) hasparentalresponsibilityforthechild;anda
(b) iswillingandableto
(i) provideaccommodationforthechild,or
(ii) arrangeforaccommodationtobeprovidedforthechild,objects.
(6)Apersonwhohasparentalresponsibilityforachildmayatanytimeremovethechildfrom
theaccommodationprovidedbyoronbehalfoftheStateGovernmentunderthissection.
(7)Subsections(5)and(6)ofthissectiondonotapplywhereaperson
(a) inwhosefavouraresidenceorderisinforcewithrespecttothechild;or
(b) whohascareofthechildbyvirtueofanordermadeintheexerciseofthejurisdictionof
theCourtattheHighCourtlevelwithrespecttochildren,agreesthatthechildbecared
forinanaccommodationprovidedbyoronbehalfoftheStateGovernment.
(8)WherethereismorethanonesuchpersonasismentionedinSubsection(7)ofthissection,
allofthosepersonsshallagree.
175. Provisionofaccommodationforchildreninpoliceprotectiondetentionorremand,etc.
(1)AStateGovernmentshallmakeprovisionforthereceptionandaccommodationofchildren
whoareremovedorkeptawayfromhome
(a) underPartIVofthisAct;
(b) underpoliceprotection;
(c) onremandorasupervisionorder;or.
(d) foranyotherreason,bytheappropriateauthority.
(2)Whereachild,whohasbeenremoved,receivedordetainedundersubsection(1)ofthis
section,isnotbeingprovidedwithaccommodationbytheStateGovernmentorinagovernment
hospital,anyreasonableexpensesofaccommodatingthechildshallberecoverablefromtheState
GovernmentinwhoseStatethechildisordinarilyresident.
176. ReferencetochildlookedafterbyStateGovernment
Where,inthisPartofthisAct,areferenceismadetoachildwhoislookedafterbyaState
Government,thatreferenceistoachildwhois
(a) inthecareoftheStateGovernment;or
(b) providedwithaccommodationbytheStateGovernmentintheexerciseofanyfunctions
underthisPartofthisAct;
177. DutyofStateGovernmenttoprovideforthewelfareofchildrenlookedafterbyit
(1)AStateGovernmentlookingafterachildshall
(a) safeguardandpromotethewelfareofthechild;and
(b) makesuchuseofservicesavailableforchildrenlookedafterbytheirownparentas
appearstotheStateGovernmentreasonableineachcase.
(2)Inmakingadecisionreferredtoinsubsection(3)ofthissection,aStateGovernmentshall
givedueconsideration
(a) havingregardtotheageandunderstandingofthechild,tosuchwishesandfeelingof
thechildasithasbeenabletoascertain;
(b) tosuchwishesandfeelingsofanypersonmentionedinsubsection(3)(b)to(d)ofthis
Sectionasithasbeenabletoascertain;and
(c) tothereligiouspersuasion,racialorigin,ethnic,culturalandlinguisticbackgroundofthe
child.
(3)AStateGovernment,beforemakinganydecisionwithrespecttoachildbeinglookedafteror
proposedtobelookedafterbyitshall,sofarasisreasonablypracticable,ascertainthewishesand
feelingsof
(a) thechild;
(b) theparentsofthechild;
(c) apersonwho,thoughnotaparentofachild,hasparentalresponsibilityforthechild;or
(d) anyotherpersonwhosewishesandfeelingstheStateGovernmentconsiderstobe
relevant,
regardingthemattertobedecided.
(4)IfitappearstoaStateGovernmentthatitisnecessary,forthepurposeofprotectingmembersofthe
publicfromseriousinjurytoexerciseitpowerswithrespecttoachildwhomitislookingafterina
mannerwhichmaynotbeconsistentwithitsdutiesunderthissection,itmaydoso.
(5)IftheMinisterconsidersitnecessary,forthepurposeofprotectingmembersofthepublicfrom
seriousinjurytogivedirectionstoanappropriateauthoritywithrespecttotheexerciseofitspowers
withrespecttoachildwhomitislookingafter,hemaygivesuchdirectionstotheappropriateauthority.
(6)Anappropriateauthorityshallcomplywithadirectiongiventoitunderthissectionnotwithstanding
thatdoingsoisinconsistentwithitsdutiesunderthissection.
178. ProvisionofaccommodationandmaintenancebyStateGovernmentforchildrenlookedafter
byit
(1)AStateGovernmentlookingafterachildshall
(a) whenthechildisitscare,provideaccommodationforhim;and
(b) maintainthechildinotherrespectsinadditiontoprovidingaccommodationforhim.
(2)AStateGovernmentshallprovideaccommodationandmaintenanceforachildunderthis
sectionby
(a) placinghim,subjecttoSubsection(5)ofthissectionandanyregulationsmadebythe
Minister,with
(i) afamily,or
(ii) arelativeofthechild,or
(iii) anyothersuitableperson,
onsuchtermsastopaymentbytheStateGovernmentandotherwiseastheStateGovernmentmay
determine;or
(b) maintainingthechildin
(i) acommunityhome,or
(ii) avoluntaryhome,or
(iii) aregisteredchildrenhome,or
(iv) ahomeprovidedbytheMinisterunderSubsection(5)ofthissection,onsuch
termsastheMinistermay,fromtimetotime,determine;or
(c) makingsuchotherarrangementswhich
(i) mayseemappropriatetoit,and.
(ii) complywithregulationsmadebytheMinister.
(3)ApersonwithwhoachildhasbeenplacedunderSubsection(2)(a)ofthissectionshallbe
referredtointhisActasaStateGovernmentfosterparentunlesshefallswithinSubsection(4)ofthis
section.
(4)Apersonfallswithinthissectionifheis
(a) aparentofthechild;or
(b) apersonwhothoughnotaparentofachild,hasparentalresponsibilityforthechild;or
(c) wherethechildisincareandtherewasaresidenceorderinforcewithrespecttohim
immediatelybeforethecareorderwasmade,apersoninwhosefavourtheresidence
orderwasmade.
(5)WhereachildisinthecareofaStateGovernment,theStateGovernmentmayonlyallow
himtolivewithapersonwhofallswithinsubsection(4)ofthissectioninaccordancewithregulations
madebytheMinister.
(6)SubjecttoanyregulationsmadebytheMinisterforthepurposesofthissubsection,aState
Governmentlookingafterachildshallmakearrangementstoenablethechildtolivewith
(a) apersonfallingwithinsubsection(4)ofthissection;orarelative,friendorotherperson
connectedwiththechild,unlessthatwouldnotbereasonablypracticableorconsistent
withthewelfareofthechild.
(7)WhereaStateGovernmentprovidesaccommodationforachildwhoitislookingafter,it
shall,subjecttotheprovisionsofthisPartofthisActandsofarasisreasonablypracticableand
consistentwithhiswelfare,securethat
(a) theaccommodationisnearthehomeofthechild;
(b) wheretheStateGovernmentisalsoprovidingaccommodationforsiblingofthechild,
theyareaccommodatedtogether.
(8)WhereaStateGovernmentprovidesaccommodationforadisabledchildunderitscareit
shall,sofarasisreasonablypracticable,ensurethattheaccommodationissuitableforhisparticular
needs.
(9)PartIIoftheSeventhScheduletothisActhaveeffectforthepurposesofmakingfurther
provisionsastochildrenlookedafterbyStateGovernmentandinparticularastotheregulationsthat
maybemadeundersubsections(2)(a),(2)(c)and(5)ofthissection.
179. Adviceandassistanceforcertainchildren,etc.
(1)WhereachildisbeinglookedafterbyaStateGovernment,theStateGovernmentadvise,
assistandbefriendthechildwithaviewtopromotinghiswelfarewhenheceasestobelookedafterby
it.
(2)Apersonqualifiesforadviceandassistanceunderthissection,ifheisundertheageof
twentyoneyearsandwas,atanytimeafterattainingtheageofeighteenyears,butwhilestillachildhe
was
(a) lookedafterbyaStateGovernment;or
(b) accommodatedbyoronbehalfofavoluntaryorganisation;or
(c) accommodatedinaregisteredchildrenhome;or
(d) accommodated
(i) byanyhealthauthorityoreducationauthority;or
(ii) inanyresidentialcarehome,nursinghomeormentalnursinghome,fora
consecutiveperiodofatleastthreemonths;or
(e) fosteredprivately,butithasceasedtobesolookedafter,accommodatedorfostered.
(3)Subsection(2)(d)ofthissectionappliesiftheperiodofthreemonthsmentionedinthat
Subsectionbeganbeforethechildattainedtheageofeighteenyears.
(4)Where
(a) aStateGovernmentknowsthatthereis,withintheStateapersonqualifyingforadvice
andassistance;
(b) conditionsinsubsection(5)ofthissectionaresatisfied;and
(c) apersonhasaskedforhelpofakindwhichaStateGovernmentcangiveunderthis
section,theStateGovernmentshall,ifthepersonwasbeinglookedafterbyaState
Governmentorwasaccommodatedbyoronbehalfofavoluntaryorganisationand,
may,inanyothercase,adviseandbefriendthechild.
(5)Theconditionswhichshallbesatisfiedundersubsection(4)ofthissectionarethat
(a) itappearstotheStateGovernmentthatthepersonconcernedisinneedofadviceand
beingbefriended;
(b) wherethepersonwasnotbeinglookedaftertheStateGovernment,itissatisfiedthat
thepersonlookingafterhimdoesnothavethenecessaryfacilitiestoadviseorbefriend
him.
(6)Where,asaresultofthissection,aStateGovernmentisunderaduty,orisempowered,to
adviseandbefriendaperson,itmayalsogivethatpersonassistance.
(7)Assistancegivenundersubsections(1)and(6)ofthissectionmaybeinkindor,in
exceptionalcircumstances,incash.
(8)AStateGovernmentmaygiveassistancetoapersonwhoqualifiesforadviceandassistance
byvirtueofsubsection(2)(a)ofthissectionby
(a) contributingtoexpensesincurredbyhiminlivingneartheplacewhereheis,orwillbe
(i) employedorseekingemployment.
(ii) receivingeducationortraining;
(b) makingagranttoenablehimtomeetexpensesconnectedwithhiseducationor
training,
(9)WhereaStateGovernmentisassistingapersonundersubsection(8)ofthissectionby
makingacontributionorgrantwithrespecttoacourseofeducationortraining,itmay
(a) continuetodosonotwithstandingthatthepersonattainstheageoftwentyoneyears
beforecompletingthecourse;and
(b) disregardanyinterruptioninthisattendanceonthecourseoftrainingifheresumesit
assoonasitisreasonablypracticable.
(10)Subsections(7)and(9)ofsection178ofthisActshallapplyinrelationtoassistancegiven
underthissection,astheyapplyinrelationtoassistancegivenunderthatsection.
(11)Whereitappearsto,aStateGovernmentthatapersonithadbeenadvisingandbefriending
underthissection,isapersonwhoqualifiesforadviceandassistanceproposestolive,orisliving,in
anotherState,itshallinformthatotherStateGovernment.
(12)Whereachildwhoisaccommodatedby
(a) avoluntaryorganisationorinaregisteredchildrenhome;or
(b) anyhealthauthorityoreducationauthority;or
(c) anyresidentialcarehome,nursinghomeormentalnursinghome,
ceasestobesoaccommodated,afterattainingtheageofeighteenyears,theorganisation,authorityor,
asthecasemaybe,personmanagingthehomeshallinformtheStateGovernmentinwhoseStatethe
childproposestolive.
(13)Subsection(12)ofthissectiononlyapplies,byvirtueofparagraph(b)or(c)ofthat
Subsection,iftheaccommodationhasbeenprovidedforaconsecutiveperiodofatleastthreemonths.
180. Useofaccommodationforrestrictingliberty
(1)Subjecttothefollowingprovisionsofthissection,achildwhoisbeinglookedafterbyaState
Governmentsshallnotbeplaced,and,ifplaced,maynotbekept,inaccommodationprovidedforthe
purposeofrestrictinglibertyknownassecureaccommodationunlessitappearsthat
(a) thechild
(i) hasahistoryofabscondingandislikelytoabscondfromaccommodationofany
otherdescription,and
(ii) islikelytosuffersignificantharmifheabsconds;
(b) ifthechildiskeptinaccommodationoranyotherdescription,heislikelytoinjure
himselforotherpersons.
(2)TheCourthearinganapplicationunderthissectionshalldeterminewhetheranyrelevant
criteriaforkeepingachildinsecureaccommodationasspecifiedunderSubsection(1)ofthissectionare
satisfiedinthiscase.
(3)WheretheCourtdeterminesthattherelevantcriteriaaresatisfied,itshallmakeanorder
authorisingthechildtobekeptinsecureaccommodationandspecifyingthemaximumperiodforwhich
thechildmaybekept.
(4)Onanyadjournmentofthehearingofanapplicationunderthissection,theCourtmaymake
aninterimorderpermittingthechildtobekeptduringtheperiodoftheadjournmentinsecure
accommodation.
(5)NoCourtshallexercisethepowersconferredbythissectioninrespectofachildwhoisnot
legallyrepresentedintheCourt,unless
(a) thechild,havingregardtothisageandunderstanding;and
(b) theparentsofthechild;or
(c) personwho,thoughnotaparentofachild,hasparentalresponsibilityforthechild;or
(d) anyotherpersonitconsidersrelevant,havingbeeninformedoftherightofthechildto
applyforlegalaidandhavinghadtheopportunitytodoso,hadrefusedorfailedto
apply.
(6)Thegivingofanauthorisationunderthissectionshallnotprejudiceanyothercourttogive
directionsrelatingtothechildtowhomtheauthorisationrelates.
(7)TheMinistermay,byregulations
(a) specifyamaximumperiod
(i) beyondwhichachildshallnotbekeptinsecureaccommodationwithoutthe
authorityoftheCourt,or
(ii) forwhichtheCourtmayauthoriseachildtobekeptinsecureaccommodation;
(b) empowertheCourt,fromtimetotime,toauthoriseachildtobekeptinsecure
accommodationforsuchfurtherperiodastheregulationsmayspecify;
(c) providethatapplicationstotheCourtunderthissectionshallbemadeonlybyState
Governmentsand
(d) providingthat
(i) thissectionshallorshallnotapplytoanydescriptionofchildrenspecifiedinthe
regulations,
(ii) thissectionshallapplyinrelationtochildrenofadescriptionspecifiedinthe
regulationssubjecttosuchmodificationsasmaybesospecified,and
(iii) suchotherprovisions,asmaybesospecified,shallhaveeffectforthepurpose
ofdeterminingwhetherachildofadescriptionspecifiedintheregulationsmay
beplacedorkeptinsecureaccommodation.
(8)Thissectionissubjecttosection178(6)ofthisAct.
181. Reviewofcasesandinquiriesintorepresentatives
(1)TheMinistermaymakeregulationsrequiringthecaseofeachchildwhoisbeinglookedafter
byaStateGovernmenttobereviewedinaccordancewiththeprovisionsoftheregulations.
(2)Theregulationsmay,inparticular,makeprovisions
(a) astothemannerinwhicheachcaseistobereviewed;
(b) astotheconsiderationstowhichaStateGovernmentistohaveregardinreviewing
eachcase;
(c) astothetimewheneachcaseisfirsttobereviewedandthefrequencyofsubsequent
reviews;
(d) requiringaStateGovernment,beforeconductinganyreview,toseektheviewsof
(i) thechild,havingregardtohisageandunderstanding;
(ii) theparentsofthechild;
(iii) apersonwhothoughnotaparentofachild,hasparentalresponsibilityforthe
child;and
(iv) anyotherpersonitconsidersrelevant,including,inparticular,theviewsof
thosepersonsinrelationtoanyparticularmatterwhichistobeconsideredin
thecourseofthereview;
(e) requiringtheStateGovernmenttoconsider,inthecaseofachildwhoisinitscare,
whetheranapplicationshouldbethecareorder;
(f) requiringtheStateGovernmenttoconsider,inthecaseofachildinaccommodation
providedbytheStateGovernment,whethertheaccommodationaccordswiththe
requirementsofthisPartofthisAct;
(g) requiringtheStateGovernmenttoinform
(i) thechild,sofarasisreasonablypracticable,
(ii) theparentsofthechild,
(iii) apersonwho,thoughnotaparentofachildhasparentalresponsibilityforthe
child;and
(iv) anyotherpenitconsidersrelevant,ofanystepshemaytakeunderthisAct;
(h) requiringtheStateGovernmenttomakearrangements,includingarrangementswith
suchotherbodiesprovidingservicesasitconsidersappropriate,toimplementany
decisionwhichitproposestotakeinthecourse,orasaresultofthereviews;
(i) requiringtheStateGovernmenttomonitorthearrangementswhichithasmadewitha
viewtoensuringthatitcomplieswiththeregulations;
(j) requiringtheStateGovernmenttonotifydetailsoftheresultofthereviewandofmy
decisiontakenbyitinconsequenceofthereviewto.
(i) thechild;
(ii) theparentsofthechild;
(iii) apersonwho,thoughnotaparentofachildhasparentalresponsibilityforthe
child;and
(iv) anyotherpersonwhomitconsidersoughttobenotified.
(3)EveryStateGovernmentshallestablishaprocedureforconsideringarepresentation
includingacomplaint,madetoitby
(a) achildwhoisbeinglookedafterbytheStateGovernmentorwhoisnotbeinglooked
afterbyitbutisinneed;
(b) aparentofthechild;
(c) apersonwho,thoughnotaparentofachildhasparentalresponsibilityforthechild;
(d) anyStateGovernmentfosterparent;
(e) suchotherpersonastheStateGovernmentconsidershasasufficientinterestinthe
child'swelfaretowarranthisrepresentationsbeingconsideredbyit,aboutthe
dischargebytheStateGovernmentofanyofitsfunctionsunderthisPartofthisActin
relationtothechild.
(4)Theprocedureestablishedpursuanttosubsection(3)ofthissectionshallensurethatatleast
onepersonwhoisnotamemberorofficeroftheStateGovernmenttakespartinthe
(a) considerations;and
(b) discussionswhichareheldbytheStateGovernmentabouttheaction,ifany,tobetaken
inrelationtothechildinthelightoftheconsiderations.
(5)Incarryingoutanyconsiderationofrepresentationsunderthissection,aStateGovernment
shallcomplywithanyregulationsmadebytheMinisterforthepurposeofregulatingtheprocedureto
befollowed.
(6)TheMinistermaymakeregulationsrequiringStateGovernmentstomonitorthe
arrangementsthattheyhavemadewithaviewtoensuringthattheycomplywithregulationsmade,for
thepurposesofSubsection(5)ofthissection.
(7)WherearepresentationhasbeenconsideredundertheprocedureestablishedbyaState
Governmentunderthissection,thatStateGovernmentshall
(a) havedueregardtothefindingsofthoseconsideringtherepresentation
(b) takesuchstepsasarereasonablypracticabletonotify,inwriting
(i) thepersonmakingtherepresentation;
(ii) thechild,iftheStateGovernmentconsidersthathehassufficient
understanding;and
(iii) theparentsofthechild;or
(iv) suchotherpersons,ifany,asappeartotheStateGovernmenttobelikelytobe
affected,
ofthatStateGovernment'sdecisioninthematteranditsreasonsfortakingthatdecisionandofany
actionwhichhastakenorproposestotake.
(8)EveryStateGovernmentshallgivesuchpublicitytoitsprocedureforconsidering
representationsunderthissectionasitconsidersappropriate.
182. Cooperationbetweenauthorities
(1)WhereitappearstoaStateGovernmentthatanyauthorityorotherpersonmentionedin
subsection(3)ofthissectioncould,bytakinganyspecifiedaction,helpintheexerciseofanyofits
functionsunderthisPart,mayrequestthehelpofthatotherauthorityorperson,specifyingtheaction
inquestion.
(2)Anauthorityorapersonwhosehelpisrequestedundersubsection(1)ofthissectionshall
complywiththerequestifitiscompatiblewiththeauthority'sorperson'sownstatutoryorotherduties
andobligationsanddoesnotundulyprejudicethedischargeofanyoftheauthority'sorperson's
functions.
(3)Subsection(2)ofthissectionrefersto
(a) aStateGovernment;
(b) aneducationauthority;
(c) ahousingauthority;
(d) ahealthauthority;and
(e) apersonauthorisedbytheMinisterforthepurposesofthissection.
(4)EveryStateGovernmentshallassistaneducationauthoritywiththeprovisionofservicesfor
achildwithinitsStatewhohasspecialeducationalneeds.
183. Consultationwiththeeducationauthorities
(1)Where
(a) achildisbeinglookedafterbyaStateGovernment;and
(b) aStateGovernmentproposestoprovideaccommodationforachildinanestablishment
atwhicheducationisprovidedforchildrenwhoareaccommodatedthere,itshall,sofar
asisreasonablypracticable,consulttheappropriateeducationauthoritybeforedoing
so.
(2)Whereaproposalundersubsection(1)(b)ofthissectioniscarriedout,theState
Governmentshall,assoonasisreasonablypracticable,informtheappropriateeducationauthorityof
thearrangementsthathavebeenmadeforthechild'saccommodation.
(3)WherethechildceasestobeaccommodatedasmentionedinSubsection(1)(b)ofthis
section,theStateGovernmentshallinformtheappropriateeducationauthority,accordingly.
184.Recoupmentofcostofprovidingservices,etc.
(1)WhereaStateGovernmentprovidesanyserviceundersection175or177ofthisAct,other
thanadvice,guidanceorcounselling,itmayrecoverfromapersonspecifiedinsubsection(4)ofthis
sectionsuchchargesfortheserviceasmaybeconsideredreasonable.
(2)WheretheStateGovernmentissatisfiedthatthemeansofthepersonspecifiedin
Subsection(4)ofthissectionareinsufficientforittobereasonablypracticableforhimtopaythe
chargesunderSubsection(1)ofthissection,itshallnotrequirehimtopaymorethanhecanreasonably
beexpectedtopay.
(3)NopersonshallbeliabletopayanychargeunderSubsection(1)ofthissectionatanytime
whenheisinreceiptofincomesupportorfamilycreditunderanylaw.
(4)Thepersonsreferredtoinsubsections(1),(2)and(3)ofthissectionare,wheretheserviceis
providedfor
(a) achildundertheageofeighteenyearswhoiscotingainfulemployment,eachofhis
parents;
(b) achildwhohasattainedtheageofeighteenyears,whoisingainfulemployment,the
childhimself;and
(c) amemberofthechild'sfamily,thatmember.
(5)Anychargeundersubsection(1)ofthissectionmay,withoutprejudicetoanyothermethod
ofrecovery,berecoveredsummarilyasacivildebt.
(6)WheretheStateGovernmentprovidesanaccommodationundersection178(1)ofthisAct
forachildwhowas,immediatelybeforeitbegantolookafterhim,ordinarilyresidentwithintheareaof
anotherStateGovernment,theStateGovernmentmayrecoverfromthatotherStateGovernmentany
reasonableexpensesincurredbyitinprovidingtheaccommodationandmaintainingthechild.
(7)WhereaStateGovernmentprovidesaccommodationundersection178(1)and(2)(a)of
thisActforachildwhoisordinarilyresidentinanotherStateanditisnotmaintainingthechildin
(a) acommunityhomeprovidedbyit;
(b) acontrolledcommunityhome;or
(c) aGovernmenthospital,
itmayrecoverfromthatotherStateGovernmentanyreasonableexpensesincurredbyitinproviding
theaccommodationandmaintainingthechild.
(8)WhereaStateGovernmentcomplieswithanyrequestundersections178(2)and186(1)of
thisActinrelationtoachildorotherpersonwhoisnotordinarilyresidentintheState,itmayrecover
fromtheStateGovernmentinwhoseStatethechildorpersonisordinarilyresidentanyexpenses
reasonablyincurredbyitinrespectofthatchildorperson.
(9)PartIIIoftheEightScheduletothisActcontainsprovisionsforcontributionstowardsthe
maintenanceofchildrenwhoarebeinglookedafterbyStateGovernments.
185. Miscellaneous
(1)NothinginthisPartofthisActshallaffectanydutyimposedonaStateGovernmentbyor
underanyotherenactmentnotinconsistentwiththisAct.
(2)Anyquestionarisingundersections178(2),119(2)or188(6)to(8)ofthisActastothe
ordinaryresidenceofachildshallbedeterminedbyagreementbetweentheStateGovernments
concernedor,indefaultofagreement,bytheMinister.
(3)WherethefunctionsconferredonaStateGovernmentbythisPartofthisActandthe
functionsofaneducationauthorityareconcurrent,theMinistermaybyregulationsspecifywhichof
themistoperformthefunctions.
(4)TheMinistermaymakeregulationfordetermining,asrespectanyeducationauthority
functionsspecifiedintheregulations,whetherachildwhoisbeinglookedafterbyaStateGovernment
istobetreated,for,purposessospecified,asachildofparentsofsufficientresourcesorasachildof
parentswithoutresources.
PARTXVI
CommunityHomes
186. Securingcommunityhomes
(1)EveryStateGovernmentshallmakesucharrangementsasitconsidersappropriatefor
securinghomes,tobeknownascommunityhomesfor
(a) thecareandaccommodationofchildrenlookedafterbyit;and
(b) purposesconnectedwiththewelfareofchildren,whetherornotlookedafterbyit.
(2)inmakingsucharrangements,aStateGovernmentshallhaveregardtotheneedforsecuring
theavailabilityofaccommodation.
(3)Acommunityhomemaybe
(a) provided,managed,equippedandmaintainedbyaStateGovernment;or
(b) providedbyavoluntaryorganisationbutinrespectofwhichaStateGovernmentand
theorganisation
(i) proposethat,inaccordancewithaninstrumentofmanagement,the
management,equipmentandmaintenanceofthehomeshallDethe
responsibilityoftheStateGovernment,or
(ii) proposethatthemanagement,equipmentandmaintenanceofthehomeshall
betheresponsibilityofthevoluntaryorganisation.
(4)WhereaStateGovernmentistoberesponsibleforthemanagementofacommunityhome
providedbyavoluntaryorganisation,thestateGovernmentshalldesignatethehomeasa"controlled
communityhome",
(5)Whereavoluntaryorganisationistoberesponsibleforthemanagementofacommunity
homeprovidedbythevoluntaryorganisation,theStateGovernmentshalldesignatethehomeasan
"assistedcommunityhome.
(6)TheEightScheduletothisActshallhaveeffectforthepurposeofsupplementingtheprovisionsof
thisPartofthisAct.
[EightSchedule]
187. DirectivesbyMinistertodiscontinuetheuseofpremisesascommunityhomes
(1)WhereisappearstotheMinisterthat
(a) anypremisesusedforthepurposesofacommunityhomeisunsuitableforthose
purposes;or
(b) theconductofacommunityhome
(i) isnotinaccordancewithregulationsmadebyhimunderparagraph4ofthe
EighthScheduletothisAct,or
(ii) isotherwiseunsatisfactory,hemay,bynoticeinwritingservedonthebody
concerned,directthatasfromsuchdateasmaybespecifiedinthenotice,the
premisesshallnotbeusedforthepurposesofacommunityhome.
(2)Where
(a) theMinisterhasgivenadirectionundersubsection(1)ofthissection;and
(b) thedirectionhasnotbeenrevoked,hemayatanytimebyorderrevoketheinstrument
ofmanagementforthecommunityhomeconcerned.
(3)ForthepurposesofSubsection(1)ofthissection,thebodyconcernedshallinrelationto
(a) acommunityhomeprovidedbyaStateGovernment,bethatState;
(b) acontrolledcommunityhome,betheStateGovernmentspecifiedintheinstrumentof
managementofthecommunityhome;and
(c) anassistedcommunityhome,bethevoluntaryorganisationwhichprovidedthe
communityhome.
188. Determinationofdisputesrelatingtocontrolledandassistedcommunityhomes
(1)WhereadisputerelatingtoacontrolledcommunityhomearisesbetweentheState
Governmentspecifiedintheinstrumentofmanagementofthecommunityhomeand
(a) thevoluntaryorganisationwhichprovidedthecommunityhomeor
(b) anyotherStateGovernmentthathasplaced,ordesiresorisrequiredtoplace,inthe
communityhome,achildwhoislookedafterbyit,
thedisputemaybereferredbyeitherpartytotheMinisterforhisdetermination.
(2)Whereadisputerelatingtoanassistedcommunityhomearisesbetweenthevoluntary
organisationwhichprovidedthecommunityhomeandtheStateGovernmentthathasplaced,ordesires
toplace,inthecommunityhome,achildwhoislookedafterbyit,thedisputemaybereferredbyeither
partytotheMinisterforhisdeterminations.
(3)WhereadisputeisreferredtotheMinisterunderthissection,hemay,inordertogiveeffect
tohisdeterminationofthedispute,givesuchdirectionashethinksfittotheStateGovernmentor
voluntaryorganisationconcerned.
(4)Thissectionappliesnotwithstandingthatthematterindisputemaybeonewhich,underor
byvirtueofPartIIoftheEighthScheduletothisAct,isreservedforthedecision,oristheresponsibility,
of
[EightSchedule]
(a) theStateGovernmentspecifiedintheinstrumentofmanagementofthecommunity
home;or
(b) thevoluntaryorganisationwhichprovidedthecommunityhome,asthecasemaybe.
189. Discontinuanceofcontrolledorassistedcommunityhomes
(1)Avoluntaryorganisationwhichhasprovidedorismanagingacontrolledoranassisted
communityhomeshallnotceasetoprovideormanagethehomeunlessithasgiventotheMinisterand
theappropriateauthorityspecifiedintheinstrumentofmanagementofthecommunityhomenotless
thantwoyearsnoticeinwritingofitsintentiontodoso.
(2)Anoticegivenundersubsection(1)ofthissectionshallspecifythedatefromwhichthe
voluntaryorganisationintendstoceasetoprovideormanagethecommunityhome.
(3)Whereanoticegivenundersubsection(1)ofthissectionisnotwithdrawnbeforethedate
specifiedinit,theinstrumentofmanagementofthecommunityhomeshallceasetohaveeffectonthat
dateandthecommunityhomeshallthenceasetobeacontrolledoranassistedcommunityhome,as
thecasemaybe.
(4)Whereanoticeisgivenundersubsection(1)ofthissectionandthevoluntaryorganisation
givesnoticeinwritingtotheMinisterthatitisunableorunwillingtocontinuetoprovideormanagethe
communityhomeuntilthedatespecifiedinthenoticegivenundersubsection(1)ofthissection,the
Ministermay,byorder
(a) revoketheinstrumentofmanagementofthecommunityhome;and
(b) requiretheStateGovernmentspecifiedintheinstrumentofmanagementtomanage
thehomeuntil
(i) thedatespecifiedinthenoticegivenundersubsection(1)ofthissection,or
(ii) suchearlierdate,ifany,asmaybespecifiedforthepurposesofthisparagraph
intheorder,asifitwereacommunityhomeprovidedbytheStateGovernment.
(5)WheretheMinisterimposesarequirementundersubsection(4)(b)ofthissection
(a) nothingintheinstrumentofmanagementofthecommunityhomeshallaffectthe
managementofthecommunityhomebytheStateGovernment;
(b) theMinistermaybyorderdirectthat,forthepurposesofanyprovisionspecifiedinthe
directionmadebyorunderanyenactmentrelatingtocommunityhomes,otherthan
thissection,thecommunityhomeshall,untilthedateorearlierdatereferredtoin
subsection(4)(b)ofthissection,betreatedasacontrolledoranassistedcommunity
home;
(c) exceptinsofarastheMinistersodirects,thecommunityhomeshall,untilthedateor
earlierdatereferredtoinsubsection(4)(b)ofthissection,betreatedforthepurposes
ofanyenactmentrelatingtocommunityhome,otherthanthissection,asacommunity
homeprovidedbytheStateGovernment;and
(d) thecommunityhomeshall,onthedateorearlierdatereferredtoinsubsection(4)(b)
(i)or(ii)ofthissection,ceasetobeacommunityhome.
190.ClosurebyStateGovernmentofcontrolledorassistedcommunityhomes
(1)TheStateGovernmentspecifiedinthatinstrumentofmanagementofacontrolledoran
assistedcommunityhomemaygiveto
(a) theMinister;and
(b) thevoluntaryorganisationwhichprovidedthehome,notlessthantwoyearsnoticein
writingofitsintentiontowithdrawitsdesignationofthehomeasacontrolledoran
assistedcommunityhome.
(2)Anoticegivenundersubsection(1)ofthissectionshallspecifythedatetobeknownasthe
specifieddateonwhichthedesignationistobewithdrawn.
(3)Where
(a) anoticeisgivenundersubsection(1)ofthissectioninrespectofacontrolledoran
assistedcommunityhome;and
(b) theappropriateauthoritymanagingthecommunityhome
(i) givesnoticeinwritingtotheMinisterthatitisunableorunwillingtocontinueto
managethecommunityhomeuntilthespecifieddate,and
(ii) doesnotwithdrawthenotice,
theMinistermay,byorder,revoketheinstrumentofmanagementofthecommunityhomefromsuch
dateearlierthanthedatespecifiedinthenoticegivenunderSubsection(1)ofthissectionasmaybe
specifiedintheorder.
(4)TheMinistershall,beforemakinganorderundersubsection(3)ofthissection,consultthe
StateGovernmentandthevoluntaryorganisationconcerned.
(5)Whereanoticehasbeengivenundersubsection(1)ofthissectionandisnotwithdrawn,the
instrumentofmanagementofthecommunityhomeshallceasetohaveeffect
(a) onthedatespecifiedinthenotice;or
(b) whereanearlierdatehasbeenspecifiedundersubsection(3)ofthissection,onthe
earlierdate,
andthecommunityhomeshallthenceasetobeacontrolledoranassistedcommunityhome,as
thecasemaybe.
PARTXVII
VoluntaryHomesandVoluntaryOrganisations
191.Provisionofaccommodationbyvoluntaryorganisations
(1)Whereavoluntaryorganisationprovidesaccommodationforachild,itshalldosoby
(a) placingthechild,subjecttosubsection(2)ofthissection,with
(i) afamily;
(ii) arelativeofthechild;
(iii) anyothersuitableperson,onsuchtermsastopaymentbythevoluntary
organisationandotherwiseasthevoluntaryorganisationmaydetermine;or
(b) maintainingthechildin
(i) avoluntaryhome;or
(ii) acommunityhome;or
(iii) aregisteredchildren'shome;or
(iv) ahomeprovidedbytheMinisterundersection201(4)ofthisAct,onsuch
termsastheMinistermay,fromtimetotime,determine;or
(c) makingsuchotherarrangements,subjecttosubsection(2)(b)ofthissectionasseem
appropriatetoit.
192. Registrationandregulationofvoluntaryhomes
(1)Nopersonshallestablishormanageavoluntaryhomeunlessthehomeisregisteredina
registertobekeptforthepurposesofthissectionbytheMinister.
(2)TheregistershallbekeptinsuchformastheMinistermay,fromtimetotime,specify.
193. Dutiesofvoluntaryorganisations
(1)Whereachildisaccommodatedbyoronbehalfofavoluntaryorganisation,thevoluntary
organisationshall
(a) safeguardandpromotethewelfareofthechild;
(b) makesuchuseoftheservicesandfacilitiesavailableforchildrencaredforbytheirown
parentasappearstothevoluntaryorganisationreasonableinthecaseofthechild;and
(c) advise,assistandbefriendthechildwithaviewtopromotingthewelfareofthechild
whenthechildceasestobesoaccommodated.
(2)Beforemakinganydecisionwithrespecttoachildundersubsection(1)ofthissection,the
voluntaryorganisationshallsofarasisreasonablypracticable,ascertainthewishesandfeelingsof
(a) thechild;
(b) theparentsofthechild;
(c) apersonwhothoughnotaparentofachildhasparentalresponsibilityforthechild;and
(d) anyotherpersonwhosewishesandfeelingthevoluntaryorganisationconsiderstobe
relevantregardingthemattertobedecided.
(3)Avoluntaryorganisationshallinmakingadecisionunderthissectiongivedueconsideration
to
(a) suchwishesandfeelingsofthechildasithasbeenabletoascertainhavingregardto
theageandunderstandingofthechild;
(b) suchotherwishesandfeelingsmentionedinsubsection(2)ofthissectionasithasbeen
abletoascertain;and
(c) thereligiouspersuasionethnicorracialoriginculturalandlinguisticbackgroundofthe
child.
194. DutiesoftheStateGovernment
(1)EveryStateGovernmentshallsatisfyitselfthatanyvoluntaryorganisationwhichprovides
accommodationforachild
(a) withintheState;or
(b) outsidethatStateonbehalfoftheState,satisfactorilysafeguardsandpromotesthe
welfareofthechildwelfareitprovideswithaccommodation.
(2)EveryStateGovernmentshallarrangeforchildrenwhoareaccommodatedwithinitsState
byoronbehalfofvoluntaryorganisationstobevisited,fromtimetotime,Intheinterestofthewelfare
ofthechildren.
(3)Subsection(2)ofthissectiondoesnotapplyinrelationtocommunityhomes.
(4)WhereaStateGovernmentisnotsatisfiedthatthewelfareofachildwhoisaccommodated
byoronbehalfofavoluntaryorganisationisbeingsatisfactorilysafeguardedorpromoteditshall
(a) unlessitconsidersthatitwouldnotbeinthebestinterestofthechild,takesuchsteps
asarereasonablypracticabletosecurethatthecareandaccommodationofthechildis
undertakenby
(i) aparentofthechild;
(ii) apersonwho,thoughnotaparentofachild,hasparentalresponsibilityforthe
child;or
(iii) arelativeofthechild;and
(b) considertheextenttowhich,ifatall,itcouldexerciseanyofitspowerswithrespectto
thechild
(5)ApersonauthorisedbyaStateGovernmentmayforthepurposeofenablingtheState
Governmenttodischargeitsdutiesunderthissection
(a) enter,atanyreasonabletime,andinspectanypremisesinwhichchildrenarebeing
accommodatedasmentionedinsubsection(1)or(2)ofthissection;
(b) inspectthechildreninthosepremises;and
(c) requireanypersontofurnishhimwithsuchrecordsofakindrequiredtobekeptby
regulations,madeunderparagraph7oftheNinthScheduletothisAct,inwhatever
formtheyareheld,orallowhimtoinspectsuchrecords,astheMinistermay,fromtime
totime,direct.
[NinthSchedule.]
(6)Apersonexercisingthepowerconferredbysubsection(5)ofthissectionshall,ifaskedtodo
so,producesomedulyauthenticateddocumentsshowinghisauthoritytodoso.
(7)Apersonauthorisedtoexercisethepowerconferredbysubsection(5)ofthissectionto
inspectrecords
(a) shallbeentitled,atanyreasonabletime,tohaveaccessto,andinspectandcheckthe
operationofanycomputerandassociatedapparatusormaterialwhichisorhasbeenin
useinconnectionwiththerecordsinquestion;and
(b) mayrequire
(i) thepersonbywhomoronwhosebehalfthecomputerisorhasbeensoused,
or
(ii) apersonhavingchargeof,orotherwiseconcernedwiththeoperationof,the
computer,apparatusormaterial,toaffordhimsuchassistanceashemay
reasonablyrequire.
(8)Apersonwhointentionallyobstructsanyotherpersonintheexerciseofanypower
conferredbySubsection(5)or(7)ofthissectioncommitsanoffenceandisliableonsummary
convictiontoafinenotexceedingtwothousandfivehundrednairaorimprisonmentforatermnot
exceedingthreemonthsortobothsuchfineandimprisonment.
(9)TheMinistermaymakeregulations
(a) requiringeverychildwhoisaccommodatedwithinaState,byoronbehalfofa
voluntaryorganisation,tobevisitedbyanofficeroftheStategovernment
(i) inprescribedcircumstances;and
(ii) onspecifiedoccasionsorwithinspecifiedperiods;and
(b) imposingrequirementswhichshallbemetbyanyStateGovernmentorofficerofaState
Government,carryingoutfunctionsunderthissection
PARTXVIII
RegisteredChildren'sHomes
195. Registration,etc.,ofchildrenshomes
(1)Nochildshallbecaredfororprovidedwithaccommodationinachildren'shomeunlessthe
homeisregisteredunderthisPartofthisAct.
(2)TheMinistermaycausearegistertobekeptforthepurposeofsubsection(1)ofthissection
insuchformashemay,fromtimetotime,specify,includingbymeansofacomputer.
(3)SubjecttoanyexemptionbyorunderthissectionandregulationsmadebytheMinisterfor
thepurposesofthisSubsection,ahomeisachildren'shomeifitprovides,orusuallyprovidesoris
intendedtoprovidecareandaccommodationwhollyormainlyformorethanthreechildrenatanyone
time.
(4)Anindependentschoolisachildren'shomeif
(a) itprovidesaccommodationfornotmorethanfiftychildren;and
(b) itisnotapprovedbytheMinistryofEducationorothereducationauthorityestablished
undertheappropriatelawsoneducationapplicableintheState.
(5)Ahomeisnotachildren'shomeforthepurposesofthisPartofthisActifitis
(a) acommunityhome;
(b) avoluntaryhome;
(c) aresidentialcarehome,nursinghomeormentalnursinghome;
(d) ahealthserviceshospital;
(e) ahomeprovided,equippedandmaintainedbytheMinister;or
(f) aschool,butsubjecttosubsection(4)ofthissection.
(6)Achildisnotcaredforandaccommodatedinachildren'shomewhen
(a)heiscaredforandaccommodatedby
(i) hisparent;
(ii) apersonwho,thoughnotaparentofachild,hasparentalresponsibilityforthe
child;or
(iii) hisrelative;or
(b) apersonmentionedinparagraph(a)(i)or(ii)ofthissectionislivinginthehome;or
(c) thepersoncaringforthechildisdoingsoinhispersonalcapacityandnotinthecourse
ofcarryingouthisdutiesinrelationtothehome.
(7)Apersonwho,withoutreasonableexcuse,caresforandaccommodatesachildinachildren's
homeorwhomanagesachildren'shomewhichisnotaregisteredchildren'shome,commitsanoffence,
andisliableonconvictiontoafinenotexceedingtenthousandnairaorimprisonmentforatermnot,
exceedingsixmonths,ortobothsuchfineandimprisonment.
(8)Theprovisionsof
(a) TenthScheduletothisActshallhaveeffectwithrespecttochildren'shomes;and
[TenthSchedule]
(b) PartIoftheFourthScheduletothisActsetsoutthecircumstancesinwhichaperson
mayfostermorethanthreechildrenwithoutbeingtreatedasmanagingachildren's
home.
[FourthSchedule]

196. Welfare,etc.,ofchildreninhomes
(1)Whereachildisaccommodatedinachildren'shome,thepersonmanagingthechildren's
homeshall
(a) safeguardandpromotethewelfareofthechild;
(b) makesuchuseoftheservicesandfacilitiesavailableforchildrencaredforbytheirown
parentsasappeartothatpersonreasonableinthecaseofthechild;and
(c) advise,assistandbefriendthechildwithaviewtopromotinghiswelfarewhenhe
ceasestobesoaccommodated.
(2)Beforemakinganydecisionwithrespecttoachildaccommodatedinachildren'shome,the
personmanagingthechildren'shomeshall,sofarasisreasonablypracticable,ascertainthewishesand
feelingsofthechild.
(3)Inmakingthedecision,thepersonconcernedshallgivedueconsideration
(a) havingregardtothechild'sageandunderstanding,tosuchwishesandfeelingsofthe
childasthepersonhasbeenabletoascertain;
(b) tosuchotherwishesandfeelingsmentionedinSubsection(2)ofthissectionashehas
beenabletoascertain;and
(c) tothereligiouspersuasion,racialorigin,ethnicorigin,culturalandlinguisticbackground
ofthechild.
(4)Section198ofthisAct,exceptsubsection(4)ofthatsection,shallapplyinrelationtoany
personwhoismanagingachildren'shomeasitappliesinrelationtoavoluntaryorganisation.
197. Personsdisqualifiedfrommanaging,orbeingemployedinchildrenshomes
(1)Apersonwhoisdisqualifiedfromfosteringachildprivatelyshallnotmanage,orbe
otherwiseconcernedinthemanagementof,orhaveanyfinancialinterestin,achildren'shomeunless
hehas
(a) disclosedtotheresponsibleauthoritythefactthatheissodisqualified;and
(b) obtainedthewrittenconsentoftheresponsibleauthority.
(2)Nopersonshallemployinachildren'shomeapersonwhoisdisqualifiedfromfosteringa
childprivatelyunlesshehas
(a) disclosedtotheresponsibleauthoritythefactthatheissodisqualified;and
(b) obtainedthewrittenconsentoftheresponsibleauthority.
(3)Wherearesponsibleauthorityrefusestogiveitsconsentunderthissection,itshallinform
theapplicantbyawrittennoticewhichstates
(a) thereasonfortherefusal;
(b) theapplicant'srighttoappealagainsttherefusaltotheCourtunderparagraph8of
ScheduletoofthisAct;and
(c) thetimewithinwhichhemayappeal.
(4)Apersonwhocontravenessubsection(1)or(2)ofthissectioncommitsanoffenceandis
liableonsummaryconvictiontoafinenotexceedingtenthousandNairaorimprisonmentforatermnot
exceedingoneyearortobothsuchfineandimprisonment
PARTXIX
SupervisoryFunctionsandResponsibilitiesofTheMinister
198. Inspectionofchildrenshome,etc.,byauthorisedpersons
(1)TheMinistermaycausetobeinspected,fromtimetotime,any
(a) children'shome;
(b) premisesinwhichachildwhoisbeingcaredforbyanappropriateauthorityisliving;
(c) premisesinwhichachildwhoisbeingaccommodatedbyoronbehalfofaneducation
authority,healthauthorityorvoluntaryorganisationisliving;
(d) premisesinwhichachildislivingwithapersonwithwhomhehasbeenplacedpending
anadoptionorder;
(e) premisesinwhichachildwhoisaprotectedchild,isorwillbeliving;
(f) premisesinwhichachild,fosteredprivately,orachildwhoistreatedasafosteredchild
byvirtueofparagraph9ofPartIIIoftheFourthScheduletothisAct,isorwillbeliving;
(g) premisesonwhichapersonisactingasachildminder;
(h) premiseswithrespecttowhichapersonisregisteredundersection168(1)(b)ofthis
Act;
(i) aresidentialcarehome,nursinghomeormentalnursinghome;
(j) premiseswhichareprovidedbyaStateGovernmentandinwhichanyserviceis
providedbythatStateGovernmentunderPartXVofthisAct;
(k) independentschoolprovidingaccommodationforachild.
(2)Aninspectionunderthissectionshallbeconductedbyapersonauthorisedtodosobythe
Minister.
(3)AnofficerofaStateGovernmentshallnotbeauthorisedasprovidedinSubsection(2)ofthis
sectionexceptwiththeconsentofthatStateGovernment.
(4)TheMinistermayrequireapersonspecifiedinsubsection(5)ofthissectiontofurnishhim
withsuchinformation,orallowhimtoinspectsuchrecords,inwhateverformtheyareheld,relatingto
(a) anypremisestowhichsubsection(1)ofthissectionapplies;or
(b) achildwhoislivinginanyofthepremisestowhichsubsection(1)ofthissection
applies;or
(c) thedischargebytheMinisterofanyofhisfunctionsunderthisAct;or
(d) thedischargebyanyStateGovernmentofanyofitsfunctionsunderthisAct,asthe
Ministermay,fromtimetotime,direct.
(5)Thepersonsreferredtoinsubsection(4)ofthissectionare
(a) aStateGovernment;
(b) avoluntaryorganisation;
(c) apersonmanagingachildren'shome;
(d) theproprietorofanindependentschool;
(e) apersonfosteringachildorprovidingaccommodationforachildonbehalfofaState
Government,educationauthorityhealthauthorityorvoluntaryorganisation;
(f) aneducationauthorityprovidingaccommodationforachild;
(g) apersonemployedinateachingoradministrativecapacity;
(h) apersonwhooccupiesanypremisesinwhichapersonactsasachildminderwithinthe
meaningofPartXIVofthisAct,orprovidesdaycareforyoungchildren,withinthe
meaningorthatPart;
(i) apersonmanaginganyhomeorakindmentionedinsubsection(1)(j)ofthissection.
(6)Apersoninspectinganyhomeorotherpremisesunderthissectionmay
(a) inspectthechildrenkeptinthehomeorpremises;and.
(b) makesuchexaminationintotheStateandmanagementofthehomeorpremisesand
thetreatmentofthechildrenkeptinthehomeorpremisesashethinksfit.
(7)ApersonauthorisedbytheMinistertoexercisethepowertoinspectrecordsconferredby
Subsection(4)ofthissection
(a) shallbeentitledatanyreasonabletimetohaveaccessto,andinspectandcheckthe
operationofanycomputer,anyassociatedapparatusormaterialwhichisorhasbeenin
useinconnectionwiththerecordsinquestion;and
(b) mayrequire
(i) thepersonbywhomoronwhosebehalfthecomputerisorhasbeensoused,
or
(ii) anypersonhavingchargeoforotherwiseconcernedwiththeoperationofthe
computer,apparatusormaterial,toaffordhimsuchreasonableassistanceashe
mayrequire.
(8)Apersonauthorisedtoinspectanypremisesunderthissectionshallhavearighttoenterthe
premisesforthatpurpose,andforanypurposespecifiedinsubsection(4)ofthissection,atany
reasonabletimeandifsorequiredshallproducesomeauthenticateddocumentshowinghisauthorityto
doso.
(9)Apersonwhowilfullyobstructsanotherpersonintheexerciseofapowerconferredbythis
sectioncommitsanoffenceandisliableonsummaryconvictiontoafinenotexceedingtwothousand
fivehundrednairaorimprisonmentforatermnotexceedingthreemonthsortobothsuchfineand
imprisonment.
(10)Theministermaybyorderprovidethatsubsections(1),(4)and(6)ofthissectionnotapply
inrelationtosuchhomesorotherpremisesasmaybespecifiedintheorderandtheordermaymake
differentprovisionswithrespecttoeachofthosesubsections.
199. Inquiries
(1)TheMinistermaycauseaninquirytobeheldintoanymatterconnectedwith
(a) thefunctionsoftheSupervisionInspectionServiceintheState;
(b) thefunctionsofanadoptionservice;
(c) thefunctionsofavoluntaryorganisation,insofarasthosefunctionsrelatetochildren;
(d) aregisteredchildren'shomeorvoluntaryhome;
(e) aresidentialcarehome,nursinghomeormentalnursinghome,sofarasitprovides
accommodationforchildren;
(g) thedetentionofachildunderthisAct.
[EditorialNote;Paragraph(f)omitted.NumberingasperGazette.]
(2)Inthissection
"functions"includespowersanddutieswhichapersonhas,otherwisethanbyvirtueofanyenactment.
200. Ministermaydirectinquiriestobeheldincamera
(1)TheMinistermaydirectthataninquiryunderSection203ofthisActshallbeheldincamera
(2)Wherenodirectionhasbeengiven,thepersonholdingtheinquirymay,ifhethinksfit,hold
itoranypartofit,inprivate.
201. FinancialsupportbyMinister
(1)TheMinistermay,withthenecessaryconsent,defrayorcontributetowards
(a) anyfeesorexpensesincurredbyapersonundergoingapprovedchildcaretraining:
Minister;
(b) anyfeeschargedandexpensesincurred,byapersonprovidingapprovedchildcare
trainingorpreparingmaterialforuseinconnectionwiththetraining;and
(c) Thecostofmaintainingapersonundergoingapprovedchildcaretraining.
(2)TheMinistermaymakegrantstoaStateGovernmentinrespectofanysecure
accommodation;butifthegrantisnotusedforthepurposeforwhichitwasmadeorthe
accommodationisnotusedas,orceasestobeusedas,secureaccommodation,theMinistermay,
requiretheStateGovernmentconcernedtorepaythegrant,inwholeorinpart.
(3)TheMinistermaymakegrantstoavoluntaryorganisationtowards
(a) expenditureincurredbyitinconnectionwiththeestablishment,maintenanceor
improvementofvoluntaryhomeswhich,atthetimewhentheexpenditurewas
incurred
(i) wereassistedcommunityhomes,or
(ii) weredesignatedasassistedcommunityhomes;
(b) expensesincurredinrespectoftheborrowingofmoneytodefrayanyofthose
expenditure.
(4)TheMinistermayarrangefortheprovision,equipmentandmaintenanceofhomesforthe
accommodationofchildrenwhoareinneedofparticularfacilitiesandservicewhich
(a) areorwillbeprovidedinthosehomes;and
(b) intheopinionoftheMinister,areunlikelytobereadilyavailableincommunityhomes.
(5)Anygrantmadeunderthissectionshallbeofsuchamountandshallbesubjecttosuch
conditions,astheMinistermaydetermine.
202. Researchandreturnsofinformation
(1)TheMinistermayconduct,orassistotherpersonsinconductingresearchintoanymatter
connectedwithhisfunctionsorthefunctionofStateGovernmentsunderthisAct,including
(a) adoption;and
(b) theaccommodationofchildreninaresidentialcarehomenursinghomeormental
nursinghome.
(2)AStateGovernmentmayconduct,orassistotherpersonsinconducting,researchintoany
matterconnectedwithitsfunctionsundertheenactmentsmentionedinsubsection(7)ofthissection.
(3)EveryStateGovernmentshall,atsuchtimesandinsuchformastheMinistermaydirect,
transmittotheMinistersuchparticularsashemayrequirewithrespectto
(a) theperformancebytheStateGovernmentofalloranyofitsfunctions
(i) underthisAct;or
(ii) inconnectionwiththeaccommodationofchildreninaresidentialcarehome,
nursinghomeormentalnursinghome;and
(b) thechildreninrelationtowhomtheStateGovernmenthasexercisedthefunctions
referredtoinparagraph(a)ofthissubsection.
(4)Everyvoluntaryorganisationshall,atsuchtimesandinsuchformastheMinistermaydirect,
transmittotheMinistersuchparticularsashemayrequirewithrespecttochildrenaccommodatedbyit
orinitsbehalf.
(5)TheMinistermayinstituteresearchdesignedtoprovideinformationonwhichrequestsfor
informationunderthissectionmaybebased.
(6)TheMinistershallkeepunderreviewtheadequacyoftheprovisionofchildcaretrainingand
forthatpurposeshallreceiveandconsideranyinformationfromorrepresentationsmadeby
(a) theNationalCouncilforEducationandTraininginSocialWork;and
(b) theNationalCounciloftheappropriateauthorityresponsibleformattersrelatingto
children;
(c) suchotherpersonsororganisationsasmayappeartohimtobeappropriate,concerning
theprovisionofsuchtraining.
(7)Theenactmentsreferredtoinsubsection(2)ofthissectionare
(a) thisAct;
(b) theCodesofCriminalLawandProcedure;and
(c) therelevantlegislationonmentalhealthrelatingtochildrencaredforbyappropriate
Stateauthorities.
203. PowerofMinistertodeclareStateGovernment,etc.,tobedefault
(1)IftheMinisterissatisfiedthataStateGovernment,oranappropriateauthorityhasfailed,
withoutreasonableexcuse,tocomplywithanyofthedutiesImposedonItbyorunderthisAct,the
MinistermaymakeanorderdeclaringthatStateGovernmentorauthoritytobeindefaultwithrespect
tothatduty.
(2)Anorderundersubsection(1)ofthissectionshallstatetheMinister'sreasonsformakingit.
(3)Anorderundersubsection(1)ofthissectionmaycontainsuchdirectionforthepurposeof
ensuringthatthedutyiscompliedwithwithinsuchperiodasmaybespecifiedintheorder,asappears
totheMinistertobenecessary.
(4)AnydirectiongivenbytheMinisterundersubsection(3)ofthissectionshall,onthe
applicationoftheMinister,beenforceablebyanorderofmandamus.
PARTXX
ChildJusticeAdministrationGeneral
204. Childtobesubjectedtoonlychildjusticesystemandprocesses
Nochildshallbesubjectedtothecriminaljusticeprocessortocriminalsanctions,butachild
allegedtohavecommittedanactwhichwouldconstituteacriminaloffenceifhewereanadultshallbe
subjectedonlytothechildjusticesystemandprocessessetoutinthisAct.
205. Protectionofprivacy
(1)Therightofthechildtoprivacyspecifiedinsection8ofthisActshallberespectedatall
stagesofchildjusticeadministrationinordertoavoidharmbeingcausedtothechildbyunduepublicity
orbytheprocessoflabeling.
(2)Accordinglynoinformationthatmayleadtotheidentificationofachildoffendershallbe
published.
(3)Recordsofachildoffendershall
(a) bekeptstrictlyconfidentialandclosedtothirdparties;
(b) madeaccessibleonlytopersonsdirectlyconcernedwiththedispositionofthecaseat
handorotherdulyauthorisedpersons;and
(c) notbeusedinadultproceedingssubsequentcasesinvolvingthesamechildoffender.
206. Professionaleducationandtraining
(1)Professionaleducation,inservicetraining,refreshercoursesandotherappropriatemodeof
instructionsshallbeutilisedtoestablishandmaintainthenecessaryprofessionalcompetenceofall
persons,includingJudges,Magistrates,officersoftheSpecialisedChildrenPoliceUnit,supervisorsand
childdevelopmentofficers,dealingwithchildoffenders.
(2)EveryJudge,Magistrateandotherjudicialofficer,appointedtotheCourtshallbetrainedin
sociologyandbehaviouralsciencestoensureeffectiveadministrationofthechildjusticesystem.
(3)Personsemployedinthechildjusticesystemshallreflectthediversityofchildrenwhocome
intocontactwiththechildjusticesystemandeffortsshallbemadebythoseconcernedwiththe
appointmentofthosepersonstoensurethefairrepresentationofwomenandminoritiesinthe
appointment.
(4)Subjecttosubsection(2)ofthissection,political,social,sexual,racial,religious,culturalor
anyotherkindofdiscriminationintheselection,appointmentandpromotionofpersonsemployedin
thechildjusticesystemshallbeavoidedinordertoachieveimpartialityintheadministrationofthe
childjusticesystem.
207. SpecialisationwithintheNigeriaPoliceForce
(1)Thereshallbeestablished,intheNigeriaPoliceForce,aspecialisedunitoftheForce,tobe
knownastheSpecialisedChildrenPoliceUnit(inthisActreferredtoasthe"Unit")whichshallconsistof
policeofficerswho
(a) frequentlyorexclusivelydealwithchildren;or
(b) areprimarilyengagedinthepreventionofchildoffences,
(2)TheUnitshallbechargedwiththefollowingfunctions,thatis
(a) thepreventionandcontrolofchildoffences;
(b) theapprehensionofchildoffenders;
(c) theinvestigationofchildoffences;and
(d) suchotherfunctionsasmaybereferredtotheUnitbythisActorbyregulationsmade
underthisActorbyanyotherenactment.
(3)MembersoftheUnitshallbecontinuallytrainedandinstructedspeciallyforthefunctions
conferredontheUnitundersubsection(2)ofthissection.
208. Useofdirection
(1)Inviewofthevaryingspecialneedsofchildrenandthevarietyofmeasuresavailable,a
personwhomakesdeterminationonchildoffendersshallexercisesuchdiscretion,ashedeemsmost
appropriateineachcase,atallstagesoftheproceedingsandatthedifferentlevelsofchildjustice
administration,includinginvestigation,prosecution,adjudicationandthefollowupofdispositions.
(2)Everypersonwhoexercisesdiscretionshallbespeciallyqualifiedortrainedtoexercisethe
discretionjudiciouslyandinaccordancewithhisfunctionsandpowers.
209. Disposalofcasewithoutresorttoformaltrial
(1)Thepolice,prosecutororanyotherpersondealingwithacaseinvolvingachildoffender
shall
(a) havethepowertodisposeofthecasewithoutresortingtoformaltrialbyusingother
meansofsettlement,includingsupervision,guidance,restitutionandcompensationof
victims;and
(b) encouragethepartiesinvolvedinthecasetosettlethecase,asprovidedinparagraph
(a)ofthissection.
(2)Thepolice,prosecutororotherpersonreferredtoinsubsection(1)ofthissectionmay
exercisethepowerconferredunderthatSubsectioniftheoffenceinvolvedisofanonseriousnature
and
(a) thereisneedforreconciliation;or
(b) thefamily,theschooloroilierinstitutioninvolvedhasreactedorislikelytoreactinan
appropriateorconstructivemanner;or
(c) where,inanyothercircumstance,thepolice,prosecutororoilierpersondeemsit
necessaryorappropriateintheinterestofthechildoffenderandpartiesinvolvedto
exercisethepower.
(3)Policeinvestigationandadjudicationbeforethecourtshallbeusedonlyasmeasuresoflast
resort.
210. Reportofthelegalstatusandrightsofthechild
ThelegalstatusandfundamentalrightsofthechildsetoutinPartIIofthisAct,andin
particular
(a) thepresumptionofinnocence;
(b) therighttobenotifiedofthecharges;
(c) therighttoremainsilent;
(d) therighttothepresenceofaparentorguardian;
(e) therighttolegalrepresentationandfreelegalaid,
shallberespectedintheadministrationofthechildjusticesystemsetoutinthisAct.
Investigation
211. Initialcontactwiththechild
(1)Ontheapprehensionofachild
(a) theparentsorguardianofthechildshall
(i) beimmediatelynotified;or
(ii) whereimmediatenotificationisnotpossible,benotifiedwithintheshortest
timepossibleaftertheapprehension,oftheapprehension;
(b) theCourtorpolice,asthecasemaybe,shall,withoutdelay,considerthe,issueof
release;
(c) contractsbetweenthepoliceandthechildshallbemanagedinsuchawayasto
(i) respectthelegalstatusofthechild;
(ii) promotethebestinterestandwellbeingofthechild;
(iii) avoidharmtothechild,havingdueregardtothesituationofthechildandthe
circumstancesofthecase.
(2)Inthissection
"harm"includestheuseofharshlanguage,physicalviolence,exposuretotheenvironmentand
anyconsequentialphysical,psychologicaloremotionalinjuryorhurt.
212. Detentionpendingtrial
(1)Detentionpendingtrialshall
(a) beusedonlyasameasureoflastresortandfortheshortestpossibleperiodoftime;
(b) whereverpossible,bereplacedbyalternativemeasures,includingclosesupervision,
carebyandplacementwithafamilyorinaneducationalsettingorhome.
(2)Whileindetention,achildshallbegivencare,protectionanynecessaryassistanceincluding
social,educational,vocational,psychological,medicalandphysicalassistance,thathemayrequire
havingregardtohisage,sexandpersonality.
(3)WheretheCourtauthorisesanapprehendedchildtobekeptinpolicedetentiontheCourt
shallunlessitcertifies
(a) that,byreasonofsuchcircumstancesasspecifiedinthecertificate,itIsimpracticable
forhimtodoso;or
(b) inthecaseofanapprehendedchildwhohasattainedtheageoffifteenyears,thatno
secureaccommodationisavailableandthatkeepinghiminsomeotherauthority's
accommodationwouldnotbeadequatetoprotectthepublicfromseriousharmfrom
thechild,securethattheapprehendedchildismovedtoaStateGovernment
accommodation.
(4)Classificationintheplaceofdetentionpendingtrialshalltakeaccountofthesocial,
educational,medicalandphysicalcharacteristicsandconditionofthechild,includinghisage,sexand
personality.
Adjudication
213. JurisdictionofCourttotrychildoffenders
(1)AchildwhoisaccusedofhavingcommittedanactsuchasiscontemplatedinSection209of
thisActshallbetriedintheCourt.
(2)Theterms"conviction"and"sentence"shallnotbeusedinrelationtoachilddealtwithin
theCourtandanyreferenceinanyenactmentorotherlawtoapersonconvicted,aconvictionora
sentenceshall,inthecaseofchildbeconstruedasincludingareferencetoapersonfoundguiltyofan
offence,ortoafindingofguiltortoanordermadeuponsuchafinding,asthecasemaybe.
214. Rightstofairhearingandcompliancewithdueprocess
(1)InthetrialofachildunderthisAct,theobservanceofhisrightstofairhearing,and
compliancewithdueprocessshallbeobserved.
(2)TheproceduresestablishedbythechildjusticesystemunderthisActshall,inrelationtothe
trialofthechildoffender,asduringtheinitialcontactwiththechildundersection216ofthisAct
(a) respectthelegalstatusofthechild;
(b) promotethebestinterestandwellbeingofthechild;and
(c) avoidharmtothechild,havingdueregardtothesituationofthechildandthe
circumstancesofthecase.
215. Guidingprinciplesinadjudication
(1)WhereachildoffenderisbroughtbeforetheCourt,thecourtshallensurethat.
(a) theproceedingsisconducivetothebestinterestsofthechildandisconductedinan
atmosphereofunderstandingwhichallowsthechildtoparticipatethereinandexpress
himselffreely;
(b) thereactiontakenisalwaysinproportionnotonlytothecircumstancesandthegravity
oftheoffencebutalsotothecircumstancesandneedsofthechildandtheneedsofthe
society;
(c) thepersonallibertyofthechildisrestrictedonly'aftercarefulconsiderationofthecase,
includingtheuseofalternativemethodsofdealingwiththechild,andtherestrictionis
limitedtothepossibleminimum;
(d) thechildisnotdeprivedofhispersonallibertyunlessheisfoundguiltyof
(i) aseriousoffenceinvolvingviolenceagainstanotherperson;or
(ii) persistenceincommittingotherseriousoffences,andthereisnoother
appropriateresponsethatwillprotectthepublicsafety;
(e) thewellbeingofthechildistheguidingfactorintheconsiderationofhiscase.
(2)TheCourthasthepowertodiscontinueanyproceedingsatanytimeifcircumstancesarise
whichmakediscontinuationoftheproceedingsthebestwaytodisposeofthecase.
(3)TheCourtshallhandleeachcasebroughtbeforeitexpeditiouslywithoutunnecessarydelay.
216. Parents,guardianstoattendCourt
(1)TheparentsorguardianofachildoffenderwhoischargedbeforetheCourtforanactwhich
constitutesacriminaloffence,shallattendallstagesoftheproceedingsandshallbeentitledto
participateintheproceedings.
(2)TheCourtmay,wherenecessary,makeanordertoenforcetheattendanceofaparentor
guardianbeforeit.
(3)Notwithstandingsubsection(1)ofthissection,whereintheopinionoftheCourt,itisnotin
theinterestofachildthathisparentorguardianshouldattend,theCourtshall,byorder,excludethe
parentorguardianfromsoattending.
217. ChildjusticeprocedureinCourt
(1)WhereachildisbroughtbeforetheCourt,theCourtshall,assoonaspossible,explaintohim
andhisparentsorguardianinalanguagethechildandthechild'sparentorguardianunderstands,the
substanceoftheallegedoffence.
(2)Subjecttotheprovisionsofsection152(4)(b)(i)ofthisAct,whereachildisbroughtbefore
theCourtforanoffence,thecaseshallbefinallydisposedofintheCourt,anditshallnotbenecessary
toasktheparentorguardianofthechildwhetherheconsentsthatthechildbedealtwithintheCourt.
(3)Ifthechilddoesnotadmitthefactsofanallegedoffence,theCourtshallproceedtohearthe
evidenceofthewitnessesinsupportofthefactsandatthecloseoftheevidenceofeachwitness,the
CourtshallaskthechildoriftheCourtseesfit,theparentorguardianofthechild,whetherheorshe
wishestoputanyquestionstothewitnesses.
(4)Ifthechild,insteadofaskingquestions,wishestomakeastatement,thechildshallbe
allowedtodosoanditshallbethedutyoftheCourttoputtothewitnessessuchofthequestionsas
appeartobenecessaryandtheCourtmayputtothechildsuchquestionsasmaybenecessaryto
explainanythinginthestatementofthechild.
(5)IfitappearstotheCourtthataprimafaciecaseismadeoutagainstthe;child,theevidence
ofthewitnessesforthedefenceshallbeheard,andthechildshallbeallowedtogiveevidenceorto
makeanystatement.
(6)IfachildadmitstheoffenceortheCourtissatisfiedthattheoffenceisproved,theCourt
shallthenaskthechildifhedesirestosayanythinginexplanationofthereasonorreasonsforhis
conduct,and,beforedecidingonhowtodealwithhim,theCourt
(a) shallobtainsuchinformationastohisgeneralconduct,homesurroundings,school
record,includingthesocialinquiryreportsreferredtoinsection224ofthisActand
medicalhistory,asmayenableitdealwiththecaseinthebestinterestsofthechild;
and
(b) mayputtothechildanyquestionarisingoutofsuchinformation.
(7)ForthepurposesofobtaininganinformationunderSubsection(6)ofthissectionorfor
specialmedicalexaminationorobservation,theCourtmayfromtimetotime,remandthechildonbail
ortoaplaceofdetention.
(8)IfachildadmitstheoffenceortheCourtissatisfiedthattheoffenceisproved,andtheCourt
decidesthataremandisnecessaryforpurposesofinquiryorobservation,theCourtmaycauseanentry
tobemadeintheCourtrecordsthatthechargeisprovedandthatthechildhasbeenremandedfor
enquiryorobservation.
(9)TheCourtbeforewhichachildwhohasbeenremandedisbroughtmay,withoutfurther
proofoftheCommissionoftheoffence,makeanyorderinrespectofthechildwhichcouldhavebeen
madebytheCourtwhichremandedthechild.
218. RemandsandcommittalstoStateGovernmentaccommodation
(1)WheretheCourtdoesnotreleaseonbailachildwhoadmitstocommittingoneormore
offenceschargedagainsthim,theCourtshallremandthechildtoaStateGovernmentaccommodation.
(2)ACourtremandingachildtoaStateGovernmentaccommodationshalldesignatethe
authoritywhichistoreceivehimandthatStateGovernmentshall
(a) inthecaseofachildwhoisalreadybeinglookedafterbyaStateGovernment,bethat
StateGovernment;and
(b) inanyothercase,betheGovernmentoftheStatewithinwhichitappearstotheCourt
thatthechildresidesorinwhichtheoffenceoroneoftheoffenceswascommitted.
(3)WhereachildisremandedinaStateGovernmentaccommodation,itshallbelawfulfor
anypersonactingonbehalfofthedesignatedStatetodetainhim.
(4)Subjecttosubsection(5)ofthissection,theCourtremandingachildtoaStateGovernment
accommodationmay,afterconsultationwiththedesignatedStateGovernment,requirethattheState
Governmentcomplieswithasecurityrequirement,whichisthatthepersoninquestionbeplacedand
keptinsecureaccommodation.
(5)ACourtshallnotimposeasecurityrequirementexceptinrespectofachildwhohasattained
theageoffifteenyears,andthenonlyif
(a) heischargedwithorhasbeenfoundtohavecommittedaviolentorsexualoffence,or
anoffencepunishableinthecaseofanadultwithimprisonmentforatermoffourteen
yearsormore;or
(b) hehasarecenthistoryofabscondingwhileremandedtoaStateGovernment
accommodation,andischargedwithorhasbeenfoundtohavecommittedanoffence
punishablewithimprisonmentwhilehewassoremanded;and
(c) theCourtisoftheopinionthatonlysucharequirementwouldbeadequatetoprotect
thepublicfromseriousharmfromthechild.
(6)WhereaCourtimposesasecurityrequirementinrespectofachild,itshall
(a) statethatifisofsuchopinionasismentionedinsubsection(5)ofthissection;and
(b)explaintothechildinordinarylanguagethereasontheCourtisofthatopinion,
andtheCourtshallcauseareasonstatedbyitunderparagraph(b)ofthissubsectiontoespecified
inthewarrantofcommitmentandtobeenteredintheCourtregister.
(7)ACourtremandingachildtoaStateGovernmentaccommodationwithoutimposinga
securityrequirementmay,afterconsultationwiththedesignatedStateGovernment,requirethatthe
childcomplieswithanysuchconditionsascouldbeimposedifhewerebeinggrantedbail.
(8)WhereaCourtimposesonachildanyconditionasismentionedinsubsection(7)ofthis
sectionitshallexplaintothechildinordinarylanguagethereasonitisimposingthecondition,
andtheCourtshallcauseareasonstatedbyitunderthissubsectiontobespecifiedinthewarrantof
commitmentandtobeenteredintheCourtregister.
(9)ACourtremandingachildtoaStateGovernmentaccommodationwithoutimposinga
securityrequirementmay,afterconsultationwiththedesignatedStateGovernment,imposeonthat
StateGovernmentrequirements
(a) forsecuringcompliancewithanyconditionimposedonthatpersonundersubsection
(7)ofthissection;or
(b) stipulatingthatheshallnotbeplacedwithanamedperson.
(10)WhereachildisremandedtoaStateGovernmentaccommodation,theCourtmay
(a) ontheapplicationofthedesignatedStateGovernment,imposeonthatchildany
conditionascouldbeimposedundersubsection(7)ofthissection,asiftheCourtwere
thenremandinghimtosuchaccommodation;and
(b) imposeonthatStateGovernmentanyrequirementforsecuringcompliancewiththe
conditionsoimposed.
(11)WhereachildisremandedtoaStateGovernmentaccommodation,theCourtmay,onthe
applicationofthedesignatedStateGovernmentvaryorrevokeanyconditionorrequirementimposed
underSubsections(7),(9)or(10)ofthissection.
219. Socialinquiryreport
(1)Theappropriateofficersshall,beforeacase,otherthanthatinvolvingaminoroffence,is
finallydisposedofbytheCourt
(a) properlyinvestigate
(i) thebackgroundofthechild;
(ii) thecircumstancesinwhichthechildisliving;and
(iii) theconditionsunderwhichtheoffencehasbeencommitted;
(b) informtheCourtofallrelevantfacts,relatingtothechild,includinghissocialandfamily
background,schoolcareerandeducationalexperience,arisingoutoftheinvestigation
underparagraph(a)ofthissubsection.
220. PowerofCourttoorderparentorguardiantopayfine,etc.
(1)WhereachildischargedbeforetheCourtwithanoffenceandtheCourtdecidesthatthe
casewouldbebestdisposedofbytheimpositionofafine,damages,compensationorcosts,whether
withorwithoutanyothermeasure,theCourtshallorderthatthefine,damages,compensationorcosts
awardedbepaidbytheparentorguardianofthechildinsteadofthechild,unlesstheCourtissatisfied
that
(a) theparentorguardianofthechildcannotbefound;or
(b) theparentorguardianhasnotcondonedtothecommissionoftheoffenceby
neglectingtoexerciseduecare,guidanceofandcontroloverthechild;
(2)Whereachildischargedwithanoffence,theCourtmayorderhisparentorguardiantogive
securityforhisgoodbehaviour.
(3)WheretheCourtthinksthatachargeagainstachildisproved,theCourtmaymakeanorder
ontheparentorguardianunderthissectionforthepaymentofdamagesorcostsorrequiringhimto
givesecurityforgoodbehaviour,withoutproceedingtofindthatthechildcommittedtheact.
(4)AnorderunderthissectionmaybemadebytheCourtagainstaparentorguardianwho,
havingbeenrequiredtoattendtheCourtfailedtodoso,butnosuchordershallbemadeWithoutthe
Courtgivingtheparentorguardiananopportunityofbeingheard.
(5)Asumimposedandorderedtobepaidbyaparentorguardianunderthissection,orany
forfeitureoranysecurityasgivenunderthissection,mayberecoveredfromtheparentorguardianby
distressinlikemannerasiftheorderhadbeenmadeontheconvictionoftheparentorguardianofthe
offencewithwhichthechildwascharged.
(6)AparentorguardianmayappealagainstanorderunderthissectiontotheCourtattheHigh
CourtlevelortheCourtofAppeal,asthecasemaybe.
221. Restrictiononpunishment
(1)Nochildshallbeorderedlobe
(a) imprisoned;or
(b) subjectedtocorporalpunishmentor
(c) subjectedtothedeathpenaltyor,havethedeathpenaltyrecordedagainsthim.
(2)Noexpectantmotherornursingmothershallbesubjectedtothedeathpenaltyorhavethe
deathpenaltyrecordedagainsther.
(3)Acourtshall,onsentencinganexpectantoranursingmother,considertheimpositionofa
noninstitutionalsentenceasanalternativemeasuretoimprisonment.
(4)Whereinstitutionalsentenceismandatoryordesirable,anexpectantoranursingmother
shallbecommittedtoandbeheldordetainedataSpecialMothersCentre.
(5)NomotherandchildshallbeheldordetainedataSpecialMothersCentreforaperiod
longerthanthetimethechildwouldhaveattainedtheageofsixyears.
(6)Where
(a) amotherisreleasedfromaSpecialMothersCentreduetotheageofherchildbeingsix
yearsbeforeshehascompletedhersentence;or
(b) achilddieswhilewiththemotherataSpecialMothersCentre,themotherShallbe
broughtbeforethecourtwhichpassedtheoriginalsentencetoreviewthecaseanddealwithheras
appropriate,havingregardtoallthecircumstancesofthecase.
(7)WhereamotherisfurthergivenasentenceofimprisonmentasaresultofareviewunderSubsection
(6)ofthissection,thechildshallbetreatedasachildinneedforpurposesofsection178ofthisActand
maybecommittedtothecareofeither

(a) hisfather;or
(b) afitandproperperson,byacommittalorder.
222. Detentionincaseofcertaincrimes
(1)NotwithstandinganythinginthisActtothecontrary,whereachildisfoundtohave
attemptedtocommittreason,murder,robberyormanslaughter,orwoundedanotherpersonwith
intenttodogrievousharm,theCourtmayorderthechildtobedetainedforsuchperiodasmaybe
specifiedintheorder.
(2)Whereanorderismadeundersubsection(1)ofthissection,thechildshall,duringthat
period,notwithstandinganythingintheotherprovisionsofthisAct,beliabletobedetainedinsuch
placeandonsuchconditionsastheCourtmaydirect,andthechildwhilstsodetainedshahbedeemed
tobeinlegalcustody.
223. Methodsofdealingwithchildoffender
(1)WhereachildchargedwithanoffenceistriedbyacourtandtheCourtissatisfiedthatthe
childactuallycommittedtheoffence,theCourtshalltakeintoconsiderationthemannerinwhichunder
theprovisionsofthisAct,thecaseshouldbedealtwith,namely,by
(a) dismissingthecharge;or
(b) dischargingthechildoffenderonhisenteringintoarecognisance;or
(c) placingthechildundercareorder,guidanceorderandsupervisionorder,including
(i) dischargingthechildoffenderandplacinghimunderthesupervisionofa
supervisionofficer;or
(ii) committingthechildoffenderbymeansofacorrectiveordertothecareofa
guardianandsupervisionofarelativeoranyotherfitperson;or
(iii) sendingthechildoffenderbymeansofacorrectiveordertoanapproved
accommodationorapprovedinstitution;or
(d) orderingthechildoffenderto
(i) participateingroupcounselingandsimilaractivities;
(ii) payafine,damages,compensationorcosts;or
(iii) undertakecommunityserviceundersupervision;or
(e) orderingtheparentorguardianofthechildoffenderto
(i) payafine,damages,compensationorcosts;or
(ii) givesecurityofhisgoodbehaviour;or
(iii) enterintoarecognisancetotakepropercareofhimandexercisepropercontrol
overhim;or














(f) committingthechildoffendertocustodyinaplaceofdetentionprovidedunderthis
Act;or
(g) makingahospitalorderoranorderprescribingsomeotherformofintermediate
treatment;or
(h) makinganorderconcerningfostercare,guardianship,livinginacommunityorother
educationalsetting;or.
(i) dealingwiththecaseinanyothermannerinwhichitmaybelegallydealtwithunder
thisAct.
(2)TheplacementofachildmanapprovedaccommodationorGovernmentinstitutionshall
(a) beadispositionoflastresort;and
(b) notbeorderedunlessthereisnootherwayofdealingwiththechild,andtheCourtshall
state,inwriting,thereasonorreasonsformakingtheorder.
(3)WhereanorderunderthissectionismadebytheCourt,theordershall,forthepurposeof
(a) revertingorrestoringstolenproperty;and
(b) enablingtheCourttomakeordersastotherestitutionordeliveryofpropertytothe
ownerandastothepaymentofmoneyuponorinconnectionwiththerestitutionor
delivery,havethelikeeffectasarestitutionorderuponaconvictionofanadult
offender,subjecthowevertoanyprotectionprovidedforthechildoffenderunderthis
Act.
(4)Acourtshallnotmakeaninstitutionalorderinrespectofachildunlessitissatisfiedthat
thereisavacancyintheapprovedinstitutiontowhichitintendstocommitthechild.
(5)Anapprovedinstitutionmayrefusetoacceptoradmitachildwherethereisnovacancyin
theinstitutionforthechildnotwithstandinganorderofaCourtcommittingthechildtothatinstitution.
224. Governmenttoprovideaccommodation
(1)EveryStateGovernmentshallsecurethatitisinapositiontocomplywithanysecurity
requirementwhichmaybeimposedonitunderthisAct.
(2)AStateGovernmentmaydischargeitsdutyundersubsection(1)ofthissectionbyproviding
secureaccommodationitselformakingarrangementswithanyotherauthorityorStatGovernmentfor
theprovisionoftheaccommodation.
(3)TheMinistermaybyregulationsmakeprovisionastothecooperationrequiredofState
Governmentsintheprovisionofsecureaccommodation.
225. Procedureonfailuretoobserveconditionofrecognisance
(1)Ifthecourtbeforewhichanoffenderisboundbyhisrecognisancetoappeartobefurther
dealtwith,issatisfiedbyinformationonoaththatthechildoffenderhasfailedtoobserveanyofthe
conditionsofhisrecognisance,itmayissue
(a) awarrantfortheapprehensionofthechild;or
(b) asummonstothechildandhissureties,ifany,requiringhimandthemtobepresentat
theCourtandatsuchtimeasmaybespecifiedinthesummons.
(2)Achildoffender,whenapprehended,shall,ifnotbroughtforthwithbeforetheCourtbefore
whichheisboundbyhisrecognisancetoappeartobefurtherdealtwith,bebroughtbeforeanother
Court.
(3)TheCourtbeforewhichachildoffenderonapprehensionisbrought,orbeforewhichhe
appearsinpursuanceofasummons,may,ifitisnottheCourtinwhichthechildoffenderisboundby
hisrecognisancetoappeartobefurtherdealtwith,remandhimincustodyoronbailuntilhecan,be
broughtbeforetheCourtinwhichheisboundbyhisrecognisancetoappear.
(4)TheCourtbeforewhichachildisboundbyhisrecognisancetoappeartobefurtherdealt
withshall,onbeingsatisfiedthatthechildhasfailedtoobserveanyconditionofhisrecognisance,
forthwithwithoutanyfurtherproofofhishavingviolatedthelaworotherwise,dealwithhimasforthe
originaloffence.
226. Bindingoverofaparentorguardian
(1)Whereachildisfoundtohavecommittedanoffence,thepowersconferredbythissection
shallbeexercisablebytheCourtbeforewhichthecaseisbrought,andtheCourtshall
(a) exercisethosepowersifitissatisfied,havingregardtothecircumstancesofthecase,
thattheirexercisewouldbedesirableintheinterestofpreventingthecommissionby
thechildofanyfurtheroffence;and
(b) whereitdoesnotexercisethosepowers,statethatitisnotsatisfiedasmentionedin
paragraph(a)ofthisSubsectionandwhyitisnotsosatisfied.
(2)ThepowersconferredbythissectionontheCourtareasfollows
(a) withtheconsentoftheparentorguardianofthechild,toordertheparentorguardian
toenterintoarecognisancetotakepropercareofthechildandexercisepropercontrol
overthechild;and
(b) iftheparentorguardianofthechildrefusestogiveconsentandtheCourtconsidersthe
refusalunreasonable,toordertheparentorguardiantopayafinenotexceedingten
thousandnaira.
(3)Anorderunderthissectionshallnotrequiretheparentorguardiantoenterintoa
recognisance
(a) foranamountexceedingthirtythousandnaira;or
(b) foraperiodexceedingthreeyearsor,wherethechildwillattaintheageofeighteen
yearsinaperiodshorterthanthreeyears,foraperiodnotexceedingthatshorter
period.
(4)ThecourthasthepowertodeclaretherecognisanceenteredintobyvirtueofSubsection(2)
ofthissectiontobeforfeited,andadjudgetheparentorguardianofthechildtopaythewholesumin
whichisboundorpartofthesumandthepaymentofthesumsoadjudgedtobeforfeitedshallbe
enforcedbymeansofawarrantofdistresstobeleviedagainstthepropertyoftheparentorguardian.
(5)Section225ofthisActshallapplyforthepurposesofsubsection(2)(b)ofthissectionasif
therefusaltoenterintoarecognisancewereasummaryoffencepunishablebyafinenotexceedingten
thousandNaira,andafineimposedunderthatsubsectionshallbedeemedforthepurposeofany
enactmenttobeadjudgedtobepaidbyvirtueofaconviction.
(6)Infixingtheamountofarecognisanceunderthissection,theCourtshalltakeintoaccount,
amongotherthings,themeansoftheparentorguardianofthechildsofarastheyappearorareknown
totheCourtandthissubsectionapplieswhetherornottakingintoaccountthemeansoftheparentor
guardianhastheeffectofincreasingorreducingtheamountoftherecognisance,
(7)Aparentorguardianmayappearto
(a) theCourtattheHighCourtlevelagainstanorderunderthissectionmadebytheCourt
atthemagistratelevel;and
(b) theCourtofAppealagainstanorderunderthissectionmadebytheCourtattheHigh
Courtlevel.
(8)ACourtmayvaryorrevokeanordermadebyitunderthissectionif,ontheapplicationof
theparentorguardian,itappearstotheCourt,havingregardtoanychangeinthecircumstancessince
theorderwasmade,tobeintheinterestofjusticetodoso.
227. Formsforcorrectiveorders
(1)AcorrectiveorderunderthisActshallbeinsuchformasmaybeprescribed.
(2)Onecopyofthecorrectiveorder,dulycompleted,shallbekeptbytheCourtwhichissued
thecorrectiveorderthesecondcopyshallbesenttotheappropriateStateCommissionerandthethird
copyshallbesentwiththechildnamedinittotheapprovedinstitutiontowhichorthepersontowhom
thechildistobesentunderthecorrectiveorder.
228. Operationofcorrectiveordermaybesuspended
Theoperationofacorrectionordermaybe
(a) suspendedpendingcompletionofarrangementsforthereceptionofthechildintoan
approvedinstitution;or
(b) onaccountofillhealthofthechild;or
(c) foranyothergoodandsufficientreasons,andinsuchcase,theCourtmayremandhim
incustodyormayorderhimtobecommittedtothecareofsomefitandproperperson
willingtoundertakehiscustody,ormayreleasehimonbail.
229. Powertovarycorrectiveorderincertaincases
(1)TheCourtwhichissuedacorrectiveordermay
(a) ifitissatisfiedthatthecorrectiveorderisabouttoexpireandthatthechildwould
benefitbyfurthercareortraining,extendtheperiodofthecorrectiveordersubjectto
theprovisionsofthisAct;
(b) orderachild.
(i) whoseperiodofdetentionhasexceededtwelvemonthstobedischarged;
(ii) tobereleasedfromanapprovedinstitutiononconditionthatthechildshallbe
ofgoodbehaviourandliveunderthechargeofanytrustworthyandrespectable
personnamedintheorderofreleasewhoiswillingtoreceiveandtakecharge
ofthechildandkeepthechildatschooloremployedatsometrade,occupation
orcalling;
(iii) tobereleasedfromoneapprovedinstitutionorpersontoanotherinstitutionor
person.
(2)Anordermadeunderthissectionmay,inthediscretionoftheCourtmakingtheorderbe
revokedandthereupontheoriginalcorrectiveordershallremaininfullforceandeffect.
230. Powerofmanagerofanapprovedinstitutiontograntleaveofabsencetoachildindetention
(1)Atanytimeduringtheperiodofachild'sdetentioninanapprovedinstitution,themanager
oftheapprovedinstitutionmaygrantleavetothechildtobeabsentfromtheapprovedinstitutionand
themanagermay,atanytime,requirehimtoreturntotheapprovedinstitution.
(2)Duringtheperiodofleavegrantedachildundersubsection(1)ofthissectionthechildshall,
forthepurposesofthisAct,bedeemedtobeunderthecareofthemanageroftheapprovedinstitution
andthemanagermayatanytime,requirehimtoreturntotheapprovedinstitution.
231. Apprehensionwithoutwarrant
Achildshall,whilstheisdetainedinoronleavefromanapprovedinstitutioninaccordancewith
theprovisionsofthisActandalsobeingconveyedtoorfromtheinstitution,bedeemedtobeinlegal
custodyanifthechildescapes,hemaybeapprehendedwithoutWarrantandbroughtbacktothe
approvedinstitution.
232. Procedureincaseofunrulyordepravedperson
Ifthemanagerofanapprovedinstitutionissatisfiedthatachildcommittedtotheapproved
institutionsisofsounrulyordepravedacharacterthatitisundesirablethatforthechildtoremainat
thatinstitution,hemaycausethechildtobebroughtbefore
(a) theCourtwhichmadethecommittalorderIandthatcourtmaymakesuchfurther
orderwhichithaspowertomakeunderthisAct;or
(b) theCourthavingjurisdictionintheplacewheretheinstitutionissituated,
andtheCourtmay,inrespectofthechild,makeanorderorfurtherorderwhichcouldhavebeenlegally
madebytheCourtwhichmadethecommittalorderundertheprovisionsofthisAct.
NoninstitutionalTreatment
233. Effectiveimplementationofnoninstitutionalorders
(1)TheFederalorStateDirectorresponsibleforchildmattersshall
(a) havetheresponsibilityforensuringtheimplementationofeverynoninstitutionalorder
oftheCourt;and
(b) makequarterlyreportstotheCourthavingjurisdictionIntheareaonhowtheorderis
tobeimplemented,ontheprogressoftheimplementationofthenoninstitutional
order,includingtheresponseofthechildoffendertothetreatmentspecifiedinthe
order.
(2)TheCourttowhichareportismadeundersubsection(1)ofthissectionhasthepowerto
modifythenoninstitutionalorder,fromtimetotime,asitdeemsfit,havingregardtothecircumstances
ofthecase.
234. Assistanceduringrehabilitation
Achildinrespectofwhomanorderreferredtoinsection227ofthisActismade,shallbe
provided,whereappropriate,withnecessaryassistance,includingaccommodation,educationor
vocationaltraining,employmentandanyotherhelpfulandpracticalassistance,duringtheperiodthe
orderisinforce.
235. Mobilisationofvoluntaryservice
Voluntaryandotherorganisationsandagencies,individualsandcommunitiesshallbe
encouragedbytheGovernmentDepartmentsandagenciesresponsibleforchildwelfaretocontribute
effectivelytotherehabilitationanddevelopmentprogrammesforchildoffenders.
InstitutionalTreatment
236. Objectiveofinstitutionaltreatment
(1)Theobjectiveoftrainingandtreatmentofachildoffenderplacedinaninstitutionshallbeto
providecar,protection,educationandvocationalskillwithaviewtoassistingthechildtoassume
sociallyconstructiveandproductiverolesinthesociety.
(2)Achildoffenderinaninstitutionshallbegivencare,protectionandallnecessaryassistance,
includingsocial,educational,vocational,psychological,medicalandphysicalassistance,thathemay
require,havingregardtothisage,sex,personalityandintheinterestofhisdevelopment.
(3)Afemalechildoffenderplacedinaninstitutionshall
(a) betreatedfairly;
(b) receivenolesscare,protection,assistance,treatmentandtrainingthanamale
child;and
(c) begivenspecialattentionastobeherpersonalneedsandproblems.
(4)Theparentsandguardianofachildoffenderplacedinaninstitutionshallhavetherightto
accesstothechildintheinterestandwellbeingofthechild.
(5)InterMinisterialandInterDepartmentalcooperationshallbeencouragedforthepurpose
ofprovidingadequateacademicorvocationaltrainingforanychildoffenderplacedinaninstitutionor
ensurethatthechilddoesnotleavetheinstitutionataneducationaldisadvantage.
237. Recourseofconditionalrelease
(1)TheCourtshalluseconditionalreleasefromaninstitutiontothegreatestpossibleextentand
grantitattheearlierpossibletime.
(2)Achildgrantedaconditionalreleasefromaninstitutionshallbeassistedandsupervisedas
providedunderPartXXIofthisAct.
Research,Planning,PolicyFormulationandEvaluation
238. Researchasabasisforplanning,policyformulation,etc.
(1)Withoutprejudicetosection207ofthisAct,theFederalandeveryStateGovernmentshall
(a) organisepromotenecessaryresearchasabasisforeffectiveplanningandpolicy
formulationonchildjusticeadministrations;
(b) reviewandappraiseperiodicallythetrends,problemandcausesofchilddelinquency
andcrimeandthevaryingparticularneedsofchildrenincustody;
(c) establisharegularevaluationresearchmechanismbuiltintothechildjustice
administrationsystem;
(d) collectandanalyserelevantdataandinformationforappropriateassessmentand
futureimprovementandreformofthechildjusticeadministrationsystem;and
(e) systematicallyplanandimplement,asanintegralpartofnationaldevelopmentefforts,
thedeliveryofservicesinchildjusticeadministration.
PARTXXI
Supervision
239. Appointmentofsupervisionofficer
(1)TheappropriateCommissionerofaStatemayappoint
(a) fitandproperpersonsbynameofexofficiotobesupervisionofficersforsuchareasas
maybespecifiedineachletterofappointment;
(b) deputysupervisionofficerstoassistandalsoactintheabsenceorduringtheillnessor
incapacityofsupervisionofficers;and
(c) assistantsupervisionofficerstoassistsupervisionofficersintheperformanceoftheir
functions.
(2)Asupervisionofficershall,whenactingunderasupervisionorder,besubjecttothecontrol
oftheCourtintheStateinwhichheisappointed.
240. Supervisioninspectorsandsupervisioninspectionservice
(1)TheCommissionermayappointsuchnumberofsupervisioninspectors,ashemay,withthe
approvaloftheGovernoroftheState,determineforallpurposesofthisPartofthisAct.
(2)ThesupervisioninspectorsappointedunderSubsection(1)ofthissection,togetherwiththe
supervisionofficersappointedundersection243ofthisAct,shallconstitutetheStateSupervision
InspectionService(inthisPartofthisActreferredtoas"theSupervisionService").
(3)TheCommissionershallappointoneofthesupervisioninspectorstobetheChiefSupervision
inspectoroftheSupervisionService.
(4)Thesupervisioninspectorshall
(a) inspectandreporttotheCommissionerontheactivitiesofSupervisionServiceandthe
activitiescarriedoutbyoronbehalfofSupervisionServiceand;
(b) dischargesuchotherfunctionsinconnectionwiththeprovisionofsupervisionorrelated
service,whetherornotprovidedbyoronbehalfoftheSupervisionServiceforanyarea,
astheCommissionmay,fromtimetotime,direct.
(5)TheCommissionershallmaketoorinrespectofsupervisioninspectorssuchpaymentsby
wayofremuneration,allowancesorotherwiseashemay,withtheapprovaloftheGovernor,
determine.
241. Defaultpowerwherethesupervisionservicefailstodischargeitsstatutoryduty
(1)TheCommissionermaymakeanorderunderthissectionifheisoftheopinionthat,without
reasonableexcuse,theSupervisionService
(a) hasfailedtodischargeanyofitsdutiesunderthisActoranyotherenactment;or
(b) hassofailedandislikelytodosoagain.
(2)Anorderundersubsection(1)ofthissectionshall
(a) statethattheCommissionerisoftheopinionreferredtoinsubsection(1)ofthis
section;and
(b) makesuchprovisionasisconsideredrequisiteforthepurposeofsecuringthattheduty
isproperlydischargedbytheSupervisionService.
(3)TheSupervisionServiceshallcomplywiththeprovisionsofanyordermadeundersubsection
(1)ofthissection.
242. PowerofCourttomakeconditionaldischargeorderandsupervisionorder
(1)Whereachildischargedwithanoffence,otherthanhomicideandtheCourtissatisfiedthat
thechargeisproved,theCourtmaymakeanorderdischargingthechildoffenderconditionallyonhis
enteringintorecognisance,withorwithoutsuretiesto
(a) beofgoodbehaviour;and
(b) appeartobefurtherdealtwithwhencalleduponatanytimeduringsuchperiodnot
exceedingthreeyears,asmaybespecifiedintheorder.
(2)Arecognisanceenteredintoundersubsection(1)ofthissectionshall,iftheCourtsoorders,
contain
(a) aconditionthatthechildoffenderbeunderthesupervisionofpersonasmaybenamed
intheorderduringtheperiodspecifiedintheorder;and
(b) suchotherconditionsforsecuringsuchsupervisionasmaybespecifiedintheorder.
(3)Anordercontainingaconditionthatachildoffenderbeundersupervisioninhis
recognisanceshallinthisActbereferredtoasasupervisionorder.
243. Personnamedinsupervisionorder.
Thepersonnamedinsupervisionordershallbe
(a) asupervisionofficerappointedbytheappropriateCommissioneroftheStateinorfor
whichtheCourtacts;or
(b) iftheCourtconsidersitexpedientonaccountoftheplaceofresidenceortheoffender
orforanyotherspecialreason,asupervisionofficerappointedbytheCommissionerof
someotherState;or
(c) iftheCourtconsidersthatthespecialcircumstancesofthecaserenderitdesirable,orif
nopersonhasbeenappointedsupervisionofficer,anyotherpersonwhohasnotbeen
appointedsupervisionofficerforanyState.
244. Supervisionofficermayberelievedofduties
Thepersonnamedinasupervisionordermayatanytimeberelievedorhisdutiesasspecified
inSection250ofthisAct,andwherethepersonisrelievedofhisdutiesorhedies,anotherpersonmay
besubstitutedbytheCourtbeforewhichtheoffenderisboundbyhisrecognisancetoappeartobe
furtherdealtwith.
245. Dutiesofsupervisionofficer
Asupervisionofficershall,subjecttothediscretionoftheCourt
(a) visitorreceivereportsfromthechildundersupervisionatsuchreasonableintervalsas
maybespecifiedinthesupervisionorderor,subjectthereto,asthesupervisionofficer
maythinkfit;
(b) seethatthechildobservestheconditionsofhisrecognisance;
(c) makeareporttotheCourtonthebehaviourofthechild;and
(d) advise,assistandbefriendthechildand,whennecessary,endeavourtofindthechild
suitableemployment.
246. PowerofCourttovarysuspensionorder
TheCourtbeforewhichachildisboundbyhisrecognisanceunderthisActtoappeartobe
furtherdealtwithmay,ontheapplicationofthesupervisionofficer,andafternoticetothechild
offendervarytheconditionoftherecognisanceandmay,onbeingsatisfiedthattheconductofthat
childhasbeensuchastomakeitnecessarythatheshouldremainundersupervision,dischargethe
recognisance.
PARTXXII
ApprovedInstitutionsandPostreleaseSupervision,etc.
247. Approvedinstitutions
ApprovedInstitutionsconsistofapprovedchildreninstitutionsandSpecialMothersCentres,all
ofwhichshallbeestablishedasprovidedinthisPartofthisAct.
248. Establishmentofapprovedinstitutions
(i)TheMinistershall
(a) establish,inanypartoftheFederationoranypartofaState,thefollowinginstitutions
tobeknownasapprovedchildreninstitutions
(i) aChildrenAttendanceCentre;
(ii) aChildrenCentre;
(iii) aChildrenResidentialCentre;
(iv) aChildrenCorrectionalCentre;
(v) aSpecialChildrenCorrectionCentre;and
(vi) suchotherinstitutionsastheMinistermay,fromtimetotime,establish;and
(b) makerulesforthemanagement,upkeepandinspectionoftheapprovedchildren
institutions
(2)TheMinisterresponsibleformattersrelatingtowomenshall
(a) establishinanypartoftheFederationinstitutionstobeknownasSpecialMothers
Centres;and
(b) makerulesforthemanagement,upkeepandinspectionoftheSpecialMothersCentres.
(3)ThesupplementaryprovisionscontainedintheEleventhSchedulestothisActshallhave
effectwithrespecttoapprovedinstitutionsestablishedbytheappropriateMinisterunderSubsection
(1)and(2)ofthissection.
249. Declarationofbuilding,etc.,asanapprovedinstitution
(1)TheMinistermaybyorderdeclareanybuilding,placeorlandwithintheFederationora
State,asthecasemaybetobe
(a) aChildrenAttendanceCentre;
(b) aChildrenCentre;
(c) aChildrenResidentialCentre;
(d) aChildrenCorrectionCentre;
(e) anEmergencyProtectionCentre;
(f) aSpecialChildrenCorrectionalCentre;or
(g) suchotherchildreninstitutionsasmaybeestablishedbytheMinister.
(2)TheMinisterresponsibleformattersrelatingtowomenmaybyorderdeclareanybuilding,
placeorlandwithintheFederationoraState,tobeaSpecialMothersCentre.
250. Childrenattendancecentres,etc.
(1)AChildrenAttendanceCentreshallbeanonresidentialplaceatwhichchildrenshall
(a) attend,onadailybasisoronsuchdaysonlyasmaybeprescribed,ontheorderofthe
Courtwhichdealtwiththecaseofthechildconcerned;and
(2)AChildrenCentreshallbeaplaceforthedetentionofchildrenwhoareremandedinor
committedtocustodyfortrialorforthemakingofadispositionorderaftertrial,orawaitingadoptionor
fostering.
(3)AChildrenResidentialCentreshallbeaplaceinwhichchildoffendersmaybedetainedand
givenregularSchooleducationandsuchothertrainingandinstructionsasmaybeconducivetotheir
reformationandresocialisationandtheremovalorreduction,oftheirtendencytocommitantisocial
actandsuchotheractswhichviolatethecriminallaw.
(4)AChildrenCorrectionalCentreshallbeaplaceinwhichchildoffendersmaybedetainedand
givensuchtrainingandinstructionsaswillbeconducivetotheirformationandresocialisation,andthe
removalorreduction,interm,oftheirtendencytocommitantisocialactsandsuchotheractswhich
violatethecriminallaw.
(5)AnEmergencyProtectionCentreshallbeaplaceinwhichachildtakenintopolice
protectionorinrespectofwhomanemergencyprotectionorderismadeshallbeaccommodateduntil
theexpirationoftheorder.
(6)ASpecialChildrenCorrectionCentreshallbeaplacetowhichchildren,whoarefoundtobe
incorrigibleortobeexercisingbadinfluenceonotherinmatesdetainedinaChildrenCorrectional
Centremaybedetained.
(7)ASpecialMothersCentreshallbeaplaceinwhichexpectantandnursingmothersareheld
forpurposesofremand,resocialisationandrehabilitationinthesocietyinanatmospheredevoidofthe
regimeofinstitutionalconfinementwhichmaybedamagingfortheproperdevelopmentoftheir
children.
(8)TheappropriateMinistermay,byregulations,prescribeorprovidefor
(a) theregulationandgovernanceoftheapprovedinstitutions;
(b) theappointment,powers,duties,conductanddisciplinarycontroloftheofficersand
otherpersonsemployedinapprovedinstitutions;
(c) thefunctionsanddutiesofvisitors,visitingcommitteesandvoluntaryvisitorsto
approvedinstitutions;
(d) theclassification,treatment,diet,clothing,maintenance,employment,discharge,
discipline,instructionandcontrolofInmatesofapprovedinstitution.
(e) thereleaseofinmatesonparole;
(f) theestablishmentofaftercareassociations,forthewelfareandreformationofchildren
dischargedfromapprovedinstitutions;
(g) theforminwhichanyordershallbemade;and
(h) suchothermattersasarerequiredforthebettercarryingoutofthepurposesofthis
section.
251. Responsibilitiesforapprovedinstitutions
(1)TheFederalDirectorresponsibleforchilddevelopmentintheMinistryorsuchotherofficer
astheMinistermaydesignateshallhavethegeneralchargeandsuperintendenceofallFederal
approvedchildreninstitutionsinNigeria.
(2)AStateDirectorresponsibleforchilddevelopmentintheappropriateMinistryorsuchother
officersastheCommissionermaydesignate,shallhavethegeneralchargeandsuperintendenceofall
approvedchildreninstitutionwithintheState.
(3)TheComptrollerGeneralofPrisonsshallhavethegeneralchargeandsuperintendenceofall
approvedyouthinstitutionsinallpartsoftheFederation.
252. Officersofapprovedinstitutions
(1)Childrendevelopmentofficersshallbeappointedtocarryoutdutiesinrelationtoapproved
childreninstitutionssituatewithintheirareasofjurisdiction.
(2)WomenaffairsofficersshallbeappointedtocarryoutdutiesinrelationtoSpecialMother
Centres.
(3)Allofficersappointedtoalltheapprovedinstitutionsdefinedinsection252ofthisactand
specifiedinthissectionshallbepersonswithbackgroundtrainingincriminology,criminaljustice
sociology,psychology,socialpsychology,guidanceandcounseling,orsocialwork.
253. Visitorsandvisitingcommittees
(1)TheMinisterortheMinisterofInternalAffairs,asthecasemaybe,may,bynoticeinthe
Gazetteappointsuchpersonsashemaythinkfittobevisitorsinrelationtosuchapprovedinstitutions
asmaybespecifiedinthenotice.
(2)Inadditiontopersonsappointedundersubsection(1)ofthissection,thefollowingpersons
shallbeexofficiovisitorstoallapprovedchildreninstitutions
(a) thePresidentandtheJusticeoftheCourtofAppeal;
(b) theChiefJudgeoftheStateoroftheFederalCapitalTerritory,Abuja,asthecasemay
be;
(c) JudgesoftheCourtattheHighCourtlevel;and
(d) membersoftheCourtattheMagisteriallevel.
(3)TheMinistermay,wherenecessary,bynoticeintheGazette,appointsuchnumberofvisitors
toconstituteavisitingcommitteeinrelationtosuchapprovedinstitutionsasmaybespecifiedinthe
noticewithoutprejudicetothegeneralrightofvisitationonthepartof.othervisitors.
(4)Visitorsandvisitingcommitteesshallperformsuchfunctionsanddutiesinrelationto
approvedinstitutionsasmaybeprescribed.
(5)TheMinistermay,bynoticeintheGazette,delegatethepowersconferredbythissectionto
appointvisitors,andvisitingcommitteesinrespectofFederalapprovedinstitutionsinaStatetothe
appropriateCommissionerofState.
(6)TheprovisionsofthissectionwhichgivetheMinisterpowertoappointpersonsasvisitors
shallnotcomeintooperationinrespectofaStateuntiltheMinisterhassignifiedintheGazettethe
consentoftheGovernoroftheStatetotheappointment.
254. Appointmentofvoluntaryvisitors
TheDirectororComptrollerGeneral,asthecasemaybe,mayauthorisesuchpersonsashe
may,thinkfitasvoluntaryvisitorstocarryoutsuchfunctionsanddutiesinrelationtoapproved
institutionsasmaybeprescribed.
255. Facilitiesforobservationofchildreninapprovedinstitutions
TheMinistershallcausetobeprovidedinapprovedinstitutionsfacilitiesfortheobservationof
anychildoryouthdetainedthereinonwhosephysicalormentalconditionamedicalreportisrequired
fortheassistanceofaCourtindeterminingthemostsuitablemethodofdealingwiththiscase.
256. TransferfromChildrenCorrectionalCentretoSpecialChildrenCentre
(1)IftheDirectororComptrollerGeneralreportstotheMinisterorCommissionerasthecase
maybe,thatachilddetainedinaChildrenCorrectionalCentreisincorrigible,orisexercisingabad
influenceontheotherinmatesoftheinstitution,theMinisterorCommissionermaydirectthatthechild
becommittedtoaSpecialChildrenCorrectionalCentreforsuchterm,notexceedingtheunexpired
portionofthetermforwhichthechildisthenliabletobedetainedintheChildrenCorrectionalCentre
astheCourtmaydetermine.
(2)AchildcommittedtoaSpecialChildrenCorrectionalCentreundersubsection(1)ofthis
sectionshall,forthepurposesofthisAct,betreatedasifhehasbeenorderedtobecommittedtothe
ChildrenCorrectionalCentreforthatterm.
(3)Noreportmadeundersubsection(1)ofthissectionbytheDirectorortheComptroller
GeneraltotheMinisterorCommissioner,asthecasemaybe,shallbemadeearlierthansixmonths
followingthedateoftheordercommittingthechildconcernedtotheChildrenCorrectionalCentre.
257. Releasefromapprovedinstitutions,etc.
(1)AchilddetainedinaChildrenAttendanceCentreoraChildrenCorrectionalCentreshallon
attainingtheageofeighteenyears,bereleased,unlessheisconsideredtoquirefurthertrainingand
InstructioninaYouthCorrectionalCentre,inwhichcaseheshallbetransferredtoaYouthCorrectional
Centre.
(2)WheretheDirectorreportstotheMinisterthatachilddetainedinaSpecialChildren
CorrectionalCentreisattainingtheageofeighteenyears,isstillincorrigibleorisstillexercisingan
influenceonotherinmates,theMinistermaydirectthatthechildbecommittedtoaSpecialYouth
CorrectionalCentre.
ReleaseandPostreleaseSupervision
258. ReleaseandsupervisionaftertrainingattheChildrenCentre
Subjecttotheprovisionsofsection257ofthisAct,achildorderedtobedetainedinaChildren
correctionalCentreshall,afterhisreleasefromtheChildrenCentre,besubjecttosupervisionin
accordancewiththeprovisionsofsection259ofthisAct.
259. Postreleasesupervisionofchildrenoffenders
(1)Achildshall
(a) afterhisreleasefromanapprovedinstitutionanduntiltheexpirationoffouryearsfrom
thedateoftheordercommittinghimtotheapprovedinstitutionbeunderthe
supervisionofsuchaftercareassociationorpersonasmaybespecifiedinanoticetobe
givenhimbytheDirectororComptrollerGeneralonhisrelease;and
(b) whileunderthatsupervision,complywithsuchrequirementsasmaybesospecifiedso
however,thattheDirectororControllerGeneralmayatanytimemodifyorcancelany
ofthoserequirementsororderthatthechildshallceasetobeundersupervision.
(2)If,beforetheexpirationoffouryearsfromthedateoftheordercommittingachildtoan
approvedinstitutiontheDirectororComptrollerGeneralissatisfiedthatthechildafterhisreleasefrom
theapprovedinstitutionundersection257ofthisAct,hasfailedtocomplywithanyrequirementforthe
timespecifiedinthenoticegiventohimundersubsection(1)ofthissection,theDirectoror
ComptrollerGeneralmaydirectthechildtoberecalledtoanapprovedinstitution.
(3)Achildwhoisrecalledintoanapprovedinstitutionisliabletobedetainedintheapproved
institutionuntiltheexpirationof
(a) threeyearsfromthedateoftheordercommittingthechildtotheapprovedinstitution;
or
(b) sixmonthsfromthedateofhisbeingtakenintocustodyunderthedirection,whichever
isthelater,and,ifatlarge,shallbedeemedtobeunlawfullyatlarge.
(4)AdirectionbytheDirectororComptrollerGeneralrecallingachildtoanapprovedinstitution
shallattheexpirationoffouryearsfromthedateoftheordercommittingthechildtotheapproved
institution,ceasetohaveeffectunlessthechildtowhomitrelatesisthenincustodythereunder.
(5)TheDirectororComptrollerGeneralmay,atanytime,releaseachildwhoisdetainedinan
approvedinstitutionunderthissectionandtheprovisionsofthissectionshallapplyinthecaseofachild
soreleasedastheyapplyinthecaseofachildreleasedundersection257ofthisAct.
(6)Ifachildwhileundersupervision,orafterrecalltoanapprovedinstitutionisorderedtobe
committedtoanapprovedinstitutionorissentencedbytheCourtoranyothercourttoallapproved
institutionfortraining,theoriginalorderorsentence
(a) shallceasetohaveeffect;and
(b) ifimprisonment,anyperiodforwhichheissoimprisonedunderthatsentenceshall
countaspartoftheperiodforwhichheisliabletobedetainedinanapproved
institutionunderhisoriginalsentence.
(7)TheDirectororComptrollerGeneralshall,inexercisinghisfunctionsunderthissection,act
inaccordancewithanygeneralorspecialdirectionsoftheMinisterorCommission,asthecasemaybe
whetheritisadvisabletoreleaseachildfromanapprovedinstitution.
(8)Inthissection,anyreferencetothedateofanordercommittingachildtoanapproved
institutionfortrainingshallinrelationtoachildwhohasappealedagainsthisorderorsentencebe
construedasareferencetothedateonwhichtheorderorsentencewasfinallyaffirmed.
PARTXXIII
TheNational,StateandLocalGovernmentChildRights
ImplementationCommittees
NationalChildRightsImplementationCommittee
260. EstablishmentandmembershipoftheNationalChildRightsImplementationCommittee
(1)ThereisestablishedacommitteetobemownastheNationalchildRightsImplementation
committee(inthisPartofthisActreferredtoas"theNationalCommittee"),
(2)TheNationalCommitteeshallcomprise
(a) thePermanentSecretaryoftheFederalMinistryofWomenAffairsandYouth
Development,asChairman;
(b) onepersontorepresenteachofthefollowingFederalMinistriesandGovernmental
Bodies
(i) WomenAffairsandYouthDevelopment;
(ii) Education;
(iii) InformationandNationalOrientation;
(iv) Health;
(v) Justice;
(vi) LabourandProductivity;
(vii) ForeignAffairs;
(viii) NationalPlanningCommission;
(ix) NigerianLawReformCommission;
(x) NigeriaPoliceForce;
(xi) NigeriaPrisonsService;
(xii) NigerianImmigrationService;
(xiii) NationalBroadcastingCommission;
(xiv) NewsAgencyofNigeria;
(c) twopersonstorepresentNonGovernmentalOrganisationsconcernedwiththerights
andwelfareofchildren;
(d) threepersonstorepresentthebroadspectrumoftherelevantdisciplinesinthe
academicinstitutions;
(e) threechildcareexpertsfromvariousdisciplinarybackgrounds;
(f) onepersontorepresenttheNigerianUnionofJournalists;
(g) onepersoneachtorepresenteachofthefollowingUnitedNationsAgencies
(i) UnitedNationsChildrenFund,asacollaboratingagency;
(ii) UnitedNationsEducationalscientificandculturalorganisationasanobserver
agency;
(iii) InternationalLabourOrganisation,asanobserveragency;and
(iv) WorldHealthOrganisation,asanobserveragency;
(h) suchotherpersonsorbodies,astheMinistermay,fromtimetotime,appoint.
261. FunctionsofNationalCommittee
(1)ThefunctionsoftheNationalCommitteeareto
(a) initiateactionsthatshallensuretheobservanceandpopularisationoftherightsand
welfareofachildasprovidedforin
(i) thisAct;
(ii) theUnitedNationsConventionontheRightsoftheChild;
(iii) theOrganisationofAfricanUnityCharterontheRightsandWelfareofthechild;
(iv) theDeclarationoftheWorldSummitforChildren;
(v) theDakarConsensusonNationalProgrammeofAction;
(vi) suchotherinternationalConvention,ChartersandDeclarationsrelatingto
childrentowhichNigeriaisorbecomesasignatory;
(b) continuallykeepunderreview,thestateofimplementationoftherightsofachild;
(c) developandrecommendtotheFederalGovernmentandtotheStateandLocal
Government,throughtheirrespectiveStateandLocalGovernmentCommittees,specific
programmesandprojectsthatshallenhancetheimplementationoftherightsofachild;
(d) collectanddocumentinformationonallmattersrelatingtotherightsandwelfareofa
child;
(e) commissioninterdisciplinaryassessmentsoftheproblemsrelatingtotherightsand
welfareofachildintheState;
(f) encourageandcoordinatetheactivitiesofInternational,Federal,StateandLocal
Governmentinstitutions,organisationsandotherbodiesconcernedwiththerightand
welfareofachild;
(g) organisemeetings;conferencessymposiaandotherenlightenmentforaontherights
andwelfareofachild;
(h) coordinatetheactivitiesofandcollaboratewiththeStateCommittee;
(i) prepareandsubmitperiodicreportsonthestateofimplementationofarights
ofthechildforthesubmissiontotheFederalGovernment,AfricanUnionand
theUnitedNations;and
(j) performsuchotherfunctionsrelatingtotherightsofachildasmay,formtimetotime,
beassignedtoit.
262. Procedure,etc.,atmeetings
TheNationalCommitteeshalldetermineitsownquorumandregulateitsownproceedingsat
anyofthemeetings.
263. SecretariatoftheNationalCommittee
TheSecretariatoftheNationalCommitteeshallbetheMinistryresponsibleforWomenAffairs
andYouthDevelopments.
StateChildRightsImplementationCommittee
264. EstablishmentandmembershipofStateChildRightsImplementationCommittee
(1)ThereisestablishedacommitteetobemownastheStatechildRightsImplementation
committee(inthisPartofthisActreferredtoas"theStateCommittee").
(2)TheStateCommitteeshallcomprise
(a) thePermanentSecretaryoftheMinistryofWomenAffairsandYouthDevelopment,as
Chairman;
(b) onepersontorepresenteachofthefollowingStateMinistriesandGovernmental
Bodiesthatis
(i) WomenAffairs;
(ii) Education;
(iii) Information;
(iv) Health;
(v) Justice;
(vi) Youthandsports;
(vii) LabourandProductivity;
(viii) StateCommissionerforwomen;
(ix) NigerianImmigrationService;
(x) NigeriaPoliceForce;
(xi) NigeriaPrisonsService;
(xii) StateAgencyformassliteracy;
(xiii) FamilyCourtJudgesattheHighCourtlevel;
(xiv) FamilyCourtMagistrate;
(c) onechildcareexpert;
(d) onepersontorepresenttheStateapprovedchildreninstitutions;
(e) onepersontorepresenttheStateCommunityhomes;
(f) onepersontorepresenttheStatebranchoftheNigerianUnionofJournalists;
(g) onepersonstorepresenttheStateBranchoftheNationalCouncilofWomenSocieties;
(h) onepersontorepresenttheStateCouncilofChiefs;
(i) onepersontorepresenttheStateBranchofChristianWomenOrganisation;
(j) onepersontorepresenttheStateBranchoftheFederationofMuslimWomen
AssociationofNigeria;
` (k) onepersontorepresentMarketMenAssociations;
(l) onepersontorepresentMarketWomenAssociations;.
(m) onepersontorepresenttheParents/TeachersAssociationintheState;
(n) twopersonstorepresentorganisationsinvolvedintheprotection'oftherightsofa
childintheState;and
(o)onepersontorepresenttheStateBranchoftheNationalUnionofTeachers.
265. FunctionsoftheStateCommittee
(1)ThefunctionsofthestateCommitteeareto
(a) initiateactionsthatshallensuretheobservanceandpopularisationoftherightsand
welfareofachildasprovidedforin
(i) thisAct;
(ii) theUnitedNationsConventionontheRightsoftheChild;
(iii) theOrganisationofAfricanUnityCharterontheRightsandWelfareofthechild;
(iv) theDeclarationoftheWorldSummitforChildren;
(v) theDakarConsensusonNationalProgrammeofAction;
(vi) suchotherinternationalConvention,ChartersandDeclarationsrelatingto
childrentowhichNigeriaisorbecomesasignatory;
(b) continuouslykeepunderreview,thestateofimplementationoftherightsofachild;
(c) developandrecommendtotheStateandLocalGovernment,throughtheirrespective
LocalGovernmentchildrightsImplementationCommittees,specificprogrammesand
projectsthatshallenhancetheimplementationoftherightsofachild;
(d) collectanddocumentinformationonallmattersrelatingtotherightsandwelfareofa
child;
(e) commissioninterdisciplinaryassessmentsoftheproblemsrelatingto'therightsand
welfareofachildintheState;
(f) encourageandcoordinatetheactivitiesofStateandLocalGovernmentinstitutions,
organisationsandotherbodiesconcernedwiththerightsandwelfareofachild:
(g) organisemeetings,conferencessymposiaandotherenlightenmentfortherightsand
welfareofachild;
(h) coordinatetheactivitiesofandcollaboratewiththeLocalGovernmentCommittees;
(i) prepareandsubmitperiodicreportsonthestateofimplementationofthe
rightsofthechildforthesubmissiontotheNationalCommittee;and
(j) performsuchotherfunctionsrelatingtotherightsofachildasmay,formtime
totime,beassignedtoit.
266. Procedureatmeetings
ThestateCommitteeshalldetermineitsownquorumandregulateitsownproceedingsatany
ofitsmeetings.
267. SecretariatoftheStateCommittee
TheSecretariatoftheStateCommitteeshallbetheMinistryresponsibleforChildren.
LocalGovernmentChildRightsImplementationCommittee
268. EstablishmentandmembershipoftheLocalGovernmentChildRightsImplementation
Committee
(1)ThereisestablishedacommitteetobemownastheLocalGovernmentchildRights
Implementationcommittee(inthisPartofthisActreferredtoas"theLocalGovernmentCommittee").
(2)TheLocalGovernmentCommitteeshallcomprise
(a) theSecretaryoftheLocalGovernment,asChairman;
(b) theSupervisorforHealthandSocialWelfareintheLocalGovernment;
(c) theSupervisorforEducationintheLocalGovernment;
(d) InformationofficerintheLocalGovernment;
(e) thechildrenDevelopmentofficerintheLocalGovernmentArea;
(f) onepersontorepresentDistrictorvillageHeadsintheLocalGovernmentArea;
(g) acommunityDevelopmentofficerintheLocalGovernmentArea;
(h) therepresentativeoftheNationalUnionofteachersintheLocalGovernmentArea;
(i) therepresentativeoftheParents/TeachersAssociationintheLocalGovernmentArea;
(j) onepersontorepresenttheheadsofMarketMen;
(k) onepersontorepresenttheheadsofMarketwomen;
(l) onepersontorepresenttheopinionleadersintheLocalGovernmentArea;
(m) twopersonstorepresenttwocommunitybasedorganisations;
(i) onepersonstorepresenttheopinionleadersintheLocalGovernmentArea;
(m) twopersonstorepresenttwocommunitybasedorganisations;
(n) onepersontorepresenttheNationalCouncilofWomenSocietiesintheLocal
GovernmentArea;
269. FunctionsoftheLocalGovernmentCommittee
(1)ThefunctionsoftheLocalGovernmentCommitteeareto
(a) initiateactionsthatshallensuretheobservanceandpopularisationoftherightsand
welfareofachildasprovidedforin
(i) thisAct;
(ii) theUnitedNationsConventionontheRightsoftheChild;
(iii) theOrganisationofAfricanUnityCharterontheRightsandWelfareofthechild;
(iv) theDeclarationoftheWorldSummitforChildren;
(v) theDakarConsensusonNationalProgrammeofAction;and
(vi) suchotherinternationalConvention,ChartersandDeclarationsrelatingto
childrentowhichNigeriaisorbecomesasignatory;
(b) continuouslykeepunderreview,thestateofimplementationoftherightsofachild;
(c) developandrecommendtotheFederalGovernmentandtotheStateandLocal
Government,throughtheirrespectiveStateandLocalGovernmentCommittees,specific
programmesandprojectsthatshallenhancetheimplementationoftherightsofachild;
(d) collectanddocumentinformationonallmattersrelatingtotherightsandwelfareofa
child;
(e) commissioninterdisciplinaryassessmentsoftheproblemsrelatingtotherightsand
welfareofachildintheLocalGovernmentArea;
(f) encourageandcoordinatetheactivitiesofLocalGovernmentinstitutions,organisations
andbodiesconcernedwiththerightandwelfareofachild;
(g) organisemeetings;conferencessymposiaandotherenlightenmentforaontherights
andwelfareofachild;
(h) prepareandsubmitperiodicreportsonthestateofimplementationoftherightsofthe
childforthesubmissiontotheStatecommittee;and
(j) performsuchotherfunctionsrelatingtotherightsofachildasmay,formtimetotime,
beassignedtoit.
270. Procedure,etc.,atmeetings
TheLocalGovernmentCommitteeshalldetermineitsownquorumandregulateitsown
proceedingsatanyofitsmeetings.
271. SecretariatoftheLocalGovernmentCommittee
TheSecretariatoftheLocalGovernmentCommitteeshallbetheofficeoftheChairmanofthe
LocalGovernment.
PARTXXIV
Miscellaneous
272. Offencesbybodiescorporate
IfanoffenceunderthisActisprovedtohavebeencommittedwiththeconsentorconnivanceof
ortobeattributabletoanyneglectonthepartofanydirector,manager,secretaryorothersimilar
officerofabodycorporate,oranypersonwhowaspurportingtoactinanysuchcapacity,he,aswellas
thebodycorporate,commitanoffenceandareliabletobeproceededagainstandpunished
accordingly.
273.Serviceofdocuments
(1)AnynoticeorotherdocumentrequiredunderthisActtobeservedonanypersonmaybe
servedonhimbybeingdeliveredpersonallytohim,orbeingsentbyposttohimbyregisteredpostorby
therecordeddeliveryserviceathisproperaddress.
(2)Anynoticeorotherdocumentrequiredtobeservedonabodycorporateorafirmshallbe
dulyservedifitisservedonthesecretaryorclerkofthatbodyorapartnerofthatfirm.
(3)Forthepurposesofthissection,theproperaddressofapersonshall
(a) inthecaseofasecretaryorclerkofabodycorporate,bethatoftheregisteredor
principalofficeofthatbody;
(b) inthecaseofapartnerofafirm,bethatoftheprincipalofficeofthefirm;and
(c) inanyothercase,bethelastknownaddressofpersontobeserved.
274. Suspensionandinconsistency
(1)TheprovisionsofthisActsupercedetheprovisionsofallenactmentsrelatingto
(a) children;
(b) adoption,fostering,guardianshipandwardship;
(c) approvedinstitutions,remandcentresandborstalinstitutions;and
(d) anyothermatterpertainingtochildrenalreadyprovidedforinthisAct.
(2) Accordingly,whereanyprovisionofthisActisinconsistentwiththatofanyofthe
enactmentsspecifiedinSubsection(1)ofthisSection,theprovisionofthisActshallprevailandthat
otherprovisionshall,totheextentofitsinconsistency,bevoid.
275. DelegationofpowersbytheMinister
TheMinistermay,byorderpublishedintheGazette,delegateanyofhispowersunderthisAct,
otherthanthepowertomakeregulations,totheappropriateCommissionersintheStates.
276. FormsintheEleventhSchedule
TheformssetoutinPart1oftheEleventhScheduletothisActshallhaveeffectwithrespectto
thematterspecifiedtherein.
277. Interpretation
InthisAct
"act"includesanomission;
"adoptionservice"meansanadoptionserviceestablishedundersection128ofthisAct;
"ageofmajority"meanstheageatwhichapersonattainstheageofeighteenyears;
"appropriateeducationauthority"meanstheMinistryofEducationoftheStateconcerned;
"approvedinstitution"hasthemeaningassignedtoinsection285ofthisAct;
"careorder"hasthemeaninggivenbysection53(1)(a)ofthisActandalsoincludesanyorder
whichbyorunderanyenactmenthastheeffectof,orisdeemedtobe,acareorderforthe
purposesofthisAct;andanyreferencetoachildwhoisinthecareofanauthorityisareference
toachildwhoisinitscarebyvirtueofacareorder;
"childassessmentorder"meansanordermadeundersection41(1)ofthisAct;
"childfosteredprivately"and"tofosterachildprivately"havethesamemeaningasinsection
120ofthisAct;
"childinneedofspecialprotectionmeasures"includesachildwhoismentallyorphysically
disabledandastreetchild;
"childminder"hasthemeaninggivenbysection163ofthisAct;
"child"means,apersonundertheageofeighteenyears;
"childofthefamily"inrelationtothepartiestoamarriage,means
(a) achildofbothofthoseparties;
(b) anyotherchild,notbeingachildwhoisplacedwiththosepartiesasfosterparentsbya
localauthorityorvoluntaryorganisation,whohasbeentreatedbybothofthoseparties
asachildoftheirfamily;
"children'shome"meansachildren'shomeregisteredundersection195ofthisAct;
"Commissioner"meanstheCommissionerchargewithresponsibilityformattersrelatingto
childrenintheStateand"Ministry"shallbeconstruedaccordingly;
"communityhome"hasthemeaningassignedtoitundersection186ofthisAct;
"contactorder"hasthemeaningassignedtoitundersection55(9)ofthisAct;
"court"meanstheFamilycourtestablishedundersection149ofthisAct;
"daycare"hasthemeaningassignedtoitunder'section163ofthisAct;
"disabled"inrelationtoachildhasthesamemeaningasthesection178(8)ofthisAct;
"domesticpremises"hasthemeaningassignedtoitundersection168(1)(a)ofthisAct;
"educationsupervisionorder"meansanorderundersection58(1)ofthisAct
"educationauthority"meanstheMinistryofEducationofaState;
"emergencyprotectionorder"meansanorderundersection42(1)ofthisAct;
"familyproceedings"meansproceedingunderthejurisdictionofacourtunderthisActwith
respecttochildren;
"fosterparent"hasthemeaningassignedtoitundersection118ofthisAct;
"functions"includespowersandduties;
"Governmenthospital"meansahospitalestablishedormanagedbyanyGovernmentofthe
Federation;
"Governor"meanstheGovernorofaState;
"guardianofachild"meansaguardian(otherthanaguardianoftheestateofachild)
appointedinaccordancewiththeprovisionsofsection85(1)ofthisAct;
"harm"hasmeaningassignedtoitundersection35ofthisAct;
"healthauthority"meanstheMinistryofHealthofaState;
"illtreatment"hasthemeaningassignedtoitundersection50(1),(b)ofthisAct;
"independentschool"meansaprivatelyownedschool;
"Minister"meanstheMinisterchargedwithresponsibilityformattersrelatingtochildrenand
"Ministry"shallbeconstruedaccordingly;
"parentalresponsibility"means
(a) alltherightsduties,powers,responsibilitiesandauthoritywhichbylawaparentofa
childhasinrelationtothechildandhisproperty;and
(b) therights,powersanddutieswhichaguardianoftheestateofthechildappointed,
beforethecommencementofthisActtoactgenerallywouldhavehadinrelationtothe
childandhisproperty,andincludes,inparticular,therightoftheguardiantorecoveror
receiveinhisownnameorthebenefitofthechild,propertyofwhateverdescription
andwhereversituatedwhichthechildisentitledtoreceiveorrecover;
"parentalresponsibilityagreement"hasthemeaningassignedtoitundersection68ofthisAct
"prescribed"meansprescribedbyregulationsmadeunderthisAct;
"prohibitedstepsorder"hasthemeaningassignedtoitunder,section55(9)ofthisAct;
"protectedchild"hasthesamemeaningasinPartIVofthisAct;
"registeredchildren'shome"hasthemeaningassignedtoitunderSection199ofthisAct;
"relative"inrelationtoachild,meansagrandparent,brother,sister,uncle,nieceornephew
auntwhetherofthefullbloodorhalfbloodorbyaffinityorstepparent;
"responsibleperson"inrelationtoachildwhoisthesubjectofasupervisionorder,hasthe
meaningassignedtoitunderparagraph1oftheSecondScheduletothisAct;
"school"hasthemeaningassignedtoitintheEducation(NationalMinimumStandardsand
EstablishmentofInstitution,Act;
"secureaccommodation"meansaccommodationwhichisprovidedinacommunityhomefor
thepurposeofrestrictingliberty;
"service"inrelationtoanyprovisionmadeunderPartXVofthisAct,includesafacility;
"signed"inrelationtoanyperson,includesthemakingbythepersonofhismark;
"specialeducation"meansthemeaningassignedtoitintheEducation(NationalMinimum
StandardsandEstablishmentofInstitutions)Act;.
"specialeducationalneeds"meanstheneedsofchildrenwhoarereceivingspecialeducation;
"specificissueorder"hasthemeaningassignedtoitundersection55(9)ofthisAct;
"StateGovernmentfosterparent"hasthesamemeaningassignedtoitunderPartXIofthis
Act;
"supervisedchild"and"supervisor"inrelationtoasupervisionorderoraneducation
supervisionorder,meansrespectively,thechildwhois,oristobeunderthesupervisionandtheperson
underwhosesupervisionheis,oristobe,byvirtueortheorder;
"SupervisionInspectionService"hasthemeaningassignedtoitundersection240ofthisAct;
"supervisionorder"hasthemeaningassignedtoitundersection53(b)ofthisAct;
"upbringing"inrelationtoanychild,includesthecareofthechildbutnothismaintenance
"voluntaryhomehasthemeaningassignedtoitundersection191(1)(i)ofthisAct;
"voluntaryorganisation"meansabodyotherthanapublicorStateauthority)whoseactivities
arenotcarriedonforprofit;
(2)ReferenceinthisActto
(a) apersonwithwhoachildlivesoristoliveastheresultofaresidenceorder;or
(b) apersoninwhosefavouraresidenceorderisinforce,
shallbeconstruedasreferencestothepersonnamedintheorderasthepersonwithwhomthechildis
tolive;
(3) ReferencesinthisActtoachildwhoislookedafterbyaStateGovernmenthavethe
samemeaningastheyhavebyvirtueofSection180ofthisAct;
(4)ReferencesinthisActtoaccommodationprovidedbyaoronbehalfofStateGovernments
arereferencestoaccommodationsoprovidedintheexerciseoffunctionsassignedtotheMinistry;
(5)Indeterminingthe"ordinaryresidence"ofachildforanypurposeofthisActthereshallbe
disregardedanyperiodinwhichthechildlivesinaplace
(a) whichisaschoolorothersituation;
(b) inaccordancewiththerequirementofasupervisionorderunderthisActoranyother
enactment;or
(c) whileheisbeingprovidedwithaccommodationbyoronbehalfofaStateGovernment
(6)ReferencesinthisActtochildrenwhoareinneedshallbeconstruedinaccordancewithSection175
ofthisAct
"accommodation"meansanaccommodationwhichisprovidedforacontinuousperiodofmorethan24
hours;
"apersonauthorisedtoseekaccess"means
(a) inthecaseofanapplicationbyaStateGovernment:
(i) anofficeroftheStateGovernment,or
(ii) apersonauthorisedbytheStateGovernmenttoactonitsbehalfinconnectionwiththe
enquiriesor
(b) inthecaseofanapplicationbyanappropriateauthority,apersonauthorisedbythe
appropriateauthority;
"appropriateauthority"meanstheMinisterorCommissionerchargedwiththeresponsibilityfor
mattersrelatingtoeducationortheauthorityinchargeofanapprovedinstitutionfortreatmentand
trainingofthechild;
"appropriateauthority"meansapersonwhoisanappropriateauthorityforthepurposeofsection52
asdefinedinsection61(1)(c)ofthisAct;
"appropriateauthority"meanstheStateGovernmentinwhoseStateitisproposedtofosterthechild
concerned;
"appropriateauthority"meanstheStateGovernmentoranyotherbodyhavingresponsibilityforthe
welfareofchildrenlookedafterbytheStateGovernment;
"appropriateauthority"meanstheStateGovernmentorvoluntaryorganisationresponsibleforthe
managementofacommunityhome;
"appropriateofficers"meanssuchofficersasmaybeassignedbytheMinistrywiththeresponsibilityfor
carryingouttheinvestigationreferredtoinSubsection(1)ofthissection;.
"anapprovedaccommodation"includes
(i) acommunityhomeasprovidedforintheEighthScheduletothisAct,
(ii) avoluntaryhomeasprovidedforinPartXVIIofandtheNinthScheduletothisAct,
(iii) aregisteredchildren'shomeasprovidedforinPartXVIIIofScheduletotothisAct,
(iv) aneducationalinstitutiontowhichachildiscommittedbyanorderunderPartVIorXVofthis
Act,and
(v) anyotherformofaccommodationwhichaStateGovernmentmayprovideforchildrenwithinits
boundariesunderPartXVofthisAct.
"approvalchildcaretraining"meanschildcaretrainingwhichisapprovedbytheMinister;
"childcaretraining"meanstrainingundergonebyanypersonwithaviewto,orinthecourseof
(a) hisemploymentforthepurposesofanyofthefunctionsmentionedinsection206of
thisActorinconnectionwiththeadoptionofchildrenorwiththeaccommodationof
childreninaresidentialcarehome,nursinghomeormentalnursinghome;or
(b) hisemploymentbyavoluntaryorganisationorsimilarpurposes;
"Commission"meanstheNationalPopulationCommissionestablishedundertheNationalPopulation
CommissionAct'"
"ComptrollerGeneralandtheComptrollerGeneraloftheNigeriaPrisonService;
"contactorder"hasthemeaningassignedtoitundersection55(9)ofthisAct
"contactorder"meansanorderrequiringthepersonwithwhomachildlives,oristolive,toallowthe
childtovisitorstaywiththepersonnamedintheorderorforthatpersonandthechildconcernedto
havecontactwitheachother;
"daycare"meansanyformofcareorsupervisedactivityprovidedforchildrenduringtheday,whether
ornotitisprovidedonaregularbasis;.
"development"meansphysical,intellectual,emotional,socialorbehaviouraldevelopment;
"Director"meanstheFederalorStateDirectorresponsibleformattersrelatingtochildreninthe
Ministry.
"domesticpremises"meansanypremiseswhichiswhollyormainlyusedasaprivatedwelling;and
"family"inrelationtoachild,includesapersonwhohasparentalresponsibilityforthechildanda
personwithwhomthechildislivingorhasbeenliving;
"fitandproperperson"includesanappropriateauthority;
"fosterparent"meansaperson,withwhomchildrenareplaced,fromtimetotime,byanappropriate
authorityoravoluntaryorganisation;
"Fosterparent"meansaperson
(a) appointedbytheStateGovernmenttofosterachild;or
(b) withwhomachildhasbeenplaced,byavoluntaryorganisation,forfostering;or
(c) withwhomachildhasbeenplacedtobefosteredprivately;
"Governor"meanstheGovernorofaState;
"guardian"meansapersonwhoistheguardianofachildbyvirtueoftheprovisionsofthisActora
personlawfullyappointedtobeguardianofthechildbydeedorwillorbyanorderofacourtof
competentjurisdictionorbyoperationoflaw;
"harm"meansilltreatmentortheimpairmentofphysical,mental,intellectual,emotional,or
behaviouralhealthordevelopment;
"harmfulpublication"meansanybookmagazine,film,picture,videooraudiotapeorprintorother
mediumwhichisakindtargetedatorlikelytofallintothehandsofchildrenandwhichconsistswholly
ormainlyofstoriestoldinpictureswithorwithouttheadditionofwrittenmatterorvideofilmand
cassettetape,whichcontainspicturesorstorieswhichportrayharmfulinformation,suchas
(a) thecommissionofcrimes;or
(b) actsofviolence,orcrueltyor
(c) incidentsofarepulsiveorhorriblenature;or
(d) actsofwordsofanimmoralcharacter;or
(e) obsceneandindecentrepresentation,
insuchawaythattheworkasawholewouldtendtoCorruptordepraveachildintowhosehandsit
mayfall;
"health"meansphysical,emotionalormentalhealth;
"home"includesaninstitution;
"imprisonableoffence"meansanoffencepunishable,inthecaseofanaudit,withthedeathpenaltyor
imprisonmentonly,withouttheoptionoffine;
"manager"meansthesupervisor,principalorpersoninchargeofanapprovedinstitution;
"noninstitutionalorder"meansanorder,madebytheCourtonthedisposalofacase,whichdoesnot
involveachildoffenderbeingplacedinaninstitution;
"nursingmother"meansamotherwhosechildisnotmorethantwoyearsold;
"photographicfilm"includesphotographicplate;
"photographicplate"meansanyplatetreatedastoreproduceorbeintendedtoreproduceanimageof
asubjectwhenphotographed;
"plate"exceptwhereitoccursintheexpression"photographicplate"includesanybook,mouldmatrix
andstencil;
"premises"includesvehicle,caravanandcabin;
"prohibitedstepsorder"meansanorderthatnostep,whichcouldbetakenbyaparentinmeetinghis
parentalresponsibilityforachildandwhichisofakindspecifiedintheorder,shallbetakenbyany
personwithouttheconsentoftheCourt;
RegisterofBirthmeanstheRegisterofBirthkeptbytheCommission;
"relevantestablishment"meansanyestablishmentwhichismentionedinparagraphs3and4of
Schedule6tothisActandincludesahospital,schoolandotherestablishments,exemptedfromthe
registrationrequirementswhichapplyinrelationtotheprovisionofdaycare;and
"residenceorder"meansanordersettingoutthearrangementstobemadeastothepersonwith
whomachildistolive;and
"reviewperiod"meanstheperiodofoneyearbeginningwiththecommencementofthisActandeach
subsequentperiodofthreeyearsbeginningwithananniversaryofthatcommencement;
"scientificsample"meansanyblood,tissueoranyothersampletakenforthepurposeofconductinga
scientifictest;
"scientifictest"meansanytestcarriedoutunderthisPartofthisAct,andincludesanytestmadewith
theobjectofascertainingtheinheritablecharacteristicsofblood,tissue,oranyothersample;
"secureaccommodation"meansaccommodationprovidedforthepurposeofrestrictingthelibertyof
children;
"secureaccommodation"meansaccommodationwhichisprovidedinacommunityhomeforthe
purposeofrestrictingliberty;
"sexualoffence"and"violentoffence"havethemeaningsassignedtothemintherelevantcodeof
criminallaw;
"skinmark"meansanyethnicorritualcutsontheskinwhichleavespermanentmarks;and
"specificissueorder"meansanordergivingdirectionsforthepurposeofdeterminingaspecific
questionwhichhasarisen,orwhichmayarise,inconnectionwithanyaspectofparentalresponsibility
forachild;
"specifiedproceedings"meansanyproceedings
(a) onallapplicationforacareorderorsupervisionorder;
(b) inwhichtheCourthasgivenadirectionundersection58(1)ofthisActandhasmade,oris
consideringwhethertomake,aninterimcareorder;
(c) onanapplicationforthedischargeofacareorderorthevariationordischargeofasupervision
order;
(d) onanapplicationunderSection61ofthisAct;
(e) inwhichtheCourtisconsideringwhethertomakearesidenceorderwithrespecttoachildwho
isthesubjectofacareorder;
(f) withrespecttoacontractbetweenachildwhoisthesubjectofacareorderandanyother
person
(g) underPartVIIIofthisAct;
(h) onanappealagainst
(i) themakingof,orrefusaltomakeacareorder,supervisionorderoranyOrderunder
section58ofthisAct;
(ii) themakingof,orrefusaltomakearesidenceorderwithrespecttoachildwhoisthe
subjectofacareorder,or
(iii) thevariationordischarge,orrefusalofanapplicationtovaryordischarge,anorderofa
kindmentionedmsubparagraph(i)or(ii)ofthisSubsection,
(iv) therefusalofanapplicationundersection62ofthisAct,or
(v) themakingoforrefusaltomakeanorderunderPartVIIIofthisActwhicharespecified
forthetimebeing,forthepurposesofthissection,byRulesofCourt;
"StateGovernmentaccommodation"meansaccommodationprovidedbyoronbehalfofas
GovernmentwithinthemeaningofPartXVofthisAct;
"streetchild"include
(a) achildwhoishomelessandforcedtoliveonthestreets;inmarketplacesandunderbridges;
and
(b) achildwho,thoughnothomelessisonthestreetsengagedinbeggingforalms,childlabour
prostitution,andothercriminalactivitieswhicharedetrimentaltothewellbeingofthechild;
"supervisedactivity"meansanactivitysupervisedbyaresponsibleperson;
"supervision"consistsofsuchsupervisionasisprovidedforinPartXXItothisAct;
"tattoo"meanstheinsertionintotheskinofcolouringmaterialdesignedtoleavepermanentmarks;
theappropriateeducationauthoritymeanstheMinistryofEducationoftheState;
thepersonresponsibleforthechildmeansapersonwho,forthetimebeing,hascareofthechildby
virtueofacareorder,orundersection58ofthisAct,asthecasemaybe;
(a) theappropriateordermeans
(i) inthecaseofachildwhoisbeingprovidedwithaccommodationby,oronbehalfofa
StateGovernment;and
(ii) inanyothercase,theGovernmentoftheStateinwhichthechildconcernedlivesorwill
live;
(b) theeducationsupervisionordermeansanordermadeundersubsection(1)ofthissection;
and
(c) achildisofcompulsoryschoolage,ifheisnotbelowsixyearsoldandeighteenyearsold;
therelevantperiodmeans
(a) theperiodofsixweeksbeginningwiththedateonwhichtheorderinquestionismade;or
(b) theperiodoftenweeksbeginningwiththedateonwhichthefirstorderwasmadeifthatperiod
ends,otherthantheperiodmentionedinparagraph(a)ofthissubsection;
"voluntaryhome"meansanyhomeorotherinstitutionprovidingcareandaccommodationforchildren
whichismanagedbyavoluntaryorganisationbutdoesnotinclude
(a) anursinghome,mentalnursinghomeorresidentialcarehome;
(b) aschool;
(c) ahealthservicehospital
(d) acommunityhome;
(e) anyhomeorotherinstitutionprovidedequippedandmaintainedbytheMinister;and
(f) anyhomewhichtheMinistermay,fromtimetotime,byregulations,exemptforthepurposes
ofthissection;
Areferenceinthissection
(a) "toachildwhoisbeinglookedafterbyaStateGovernment",meansachildwhois
` (i) inthecaseoftheStateGovernment,or
(ii) providedwithaccommodationbytheStateGovernmentinexerciseofits
functionasunderthisActoranyotherlaw;
(b) toconsultationshallbeconstruedasareferencetosuchconsultation,ifany,asisreasonably
practicableinallthecircumstancesofthecase;and
(c) inrelationtoachildchargedwithorconvictedofaviolentorsexualoffence,toprotectingthe
publicfromseriousharm,fromhim,shallbeconstruedasareferencetoprotectingmembersof
thepublicfromdeathorseriouspersonalinjury,whetherphysicalorpsychological,occasioned
byfurthercommissionbyhimofasimilaroffence;

278. Citation
ThisActmaybecitedastheChild'sRightsAct,2003.
______________________

SCHEDULES
FIRSTSCHEDULE
[Section55(14).]
FINANCIALPROVISIONFORCHILDREN
Ordersforfinancialreliefagainstparents
1.(1)Onanapplicationmadebyaparentorguardianofachild,orbyanypersoninwhosefavoura
residenceorderisinforcewithrespecttoachild,theCourtmay
(a) inthecaseofanapplicationtotheCourtattheHighcourtlevel,makeoneormoreof
theordersmentionedinSubparagraph(2)ofthisparagraph;
(b) inthecaseofanapplicationtotheCourtatmagisteriallevel,makeoneorbothofthe
ordersmentionedinparagraphs(a)and(c)of,thatsubparagraph;
(2)Theordersreferredtoinsubparagraph(1)ofthisparagraphare
(a) anorderrequiringeitherorbothparentsofachild;
(i) tomaketotheapplicantforthebenefitofthechild:or
(ii) tomaketothechildhimself;
suchperiodicalpayments,forsuchterm,asmaybespecifiedintheorder;
(b) anorderrequiringeitherorbothparentsofachild
(i) tosecuretotheapplicantforthebenefitofthechild.or
(ii) tosecuretothechildhimself;
suchperiodicalpaymentsforsuchterm,asmaybesospecified;
(c) anorderrequiringeitherorbothparentsofachild
(i) topaytotheapplicantforthebenefitofthechild,or
(ii) topaytothechildhimself,suchlumpsumasmaybesospecified;
(d) anorderrequiringasettlementtobemadeforthebenefitofthechild,andtothe
satisfactionoftheCourt,ofproperty
(i) towhicheitherparentisentitled(eitherinpossessionorinreversion)and
(ii) whichisspecifiedintheorder;
(e) anorderrequiringeitherorbothparentsofachild
(i) totransfertotheapplicant,forthebenefitofthechild,or
(ii) totransfertothechildhimself,
suchpropertytowhichtheparentis,ortheparentsare,entitled(eitherinpossessionorinreversion)as
maybespecifiedintheorder.
(3)Thepowersconferredbythisparagraphmaybeexercisedatanytime.
(4)Anorderundersubparagraph(2)(a)or(b)ofthisparagraphmaybevariedordischargedbya
subsequentordermadeontheapplicationofanypersonbyortowhompaymentswererequiredtobe
madeunderthepreviousorder.
(5)WheretheCourtmakesanorderunderthisparagraph
(a) itmayatanytimemakeafurthersuchorderundersubparagraph(2)(a),(b)or(c)of
thisparagraphwithrespecttothechildconcernedifhehasnotattainedtheageof
eighteenyears;
(b) itmaynotmakemorethanoneorderundersubparagraph(2)(d)or(e)ofthisparagraph
againstthesamepersoninrespectofthesamechild.
(6)Onmaking,varyingordischargingaresidenceorder,theCourtmayexerciseanyofitspowersunder
thisSchedulenotwithstandingthatnoapplicationhasbeenmadetoitunderthisSchedule;
2.(1)Ifonanapplicationbyapersonwhohasattainedtheageofeighteenyears,itappearstothe
Court
(a) thattheapplicantis,willbeor(ifanorderweremadeunderthisparagraph)wouldbe
receivinginstructionataneducationalestablishmentorundergoingtrainingforatrade,
professionorvocation,whetherornotwhileingainfulemployment;or
(b) thattherearespecialcircumstanceswhichjustifythemakingofanorderunderthis
paragraph,
theCourtmaymakeoneorbothoftheordersmentionedinsubparagraph(2)ofthisparagraph.
(2)Theordersreferredtoinsubparagraph(1)ofthisparagraphare
(a) anorderrequiringeitherorbothoftheapplicant'sparentstopaytotheapplicantsuch
periodicalpayments,forsuchterm,asmaybespecifiedintheorder;
(b) anorderrequiringeitherorbothoftheapplicant'sparentstopaytotheapplicantsuch
periodicalpayments,forsuchtermasmaybespecifiedintheorder.
(3)Anapplicationmaynotbemadeunderthisparagraphbyanypersonif,immediatelybeforehe
attainedtheageofsixteenyears,aperiodicalpaymentsorderwasinforcewithrespecttohim.
(4)Noordershallbemadeunderthisparagraphatatimewhentheparentsoftheapplicantare
livingwitheachotherinthesamehousehold.
(5)Anorderundersubparagraph(2)(a)ofthisparagraphmaybevariedordischargedbya
subsequentordermadeontheapplicationofanypersonbyortowhompaymentswererequiredtobe
madeunderthepreviousorder.
(6)Thepowersconferredbythisparagraphshallbeexercisableatanytime.
(7)WheretheCourtmakesanorderunderthisparagraphitmay,fromtimetotimewhilethatorder
remainsinforcemakeafurthersuchorder.
(8)Insubparagraph(3)ofthisparagraph,"periodicalpaymentsorder"meansanordermadeunder
thisScheduleforthemakingorsecuringofperiodicalpayments.
Durationofordersforfinancialrelief
3.(1)Thetermtobespecifiedinanorderforperiodicalpaymentsmadeunderparagraph1(2)(a)or(b)
ofthisScheduleinfavourofachildmaybeginwiththedateofthemakingofanapplicationforthe
orderinquestionoranylaterdatebutshallnot
(a) inthefirstinstanceextendbeyondthechild'sseventeenthbirthdayunlesstheCourt
thinksitrightinthecircumstancesofthecasetospecifyalaterdate;and
(b) shallnotinanyeventextendbeyondthechild'seighteenthbirthday.
(2)Subparagraph(1)(b)ofthisparagraphshallnotapplyinthecaseofachildifitappearstotheCourt
that
(a) thechildisorwillbeorifanorderweremadewithoutcomplyingwiththat
subparagraphwouldbereceivinginstructionataneducationalestablishmentor
undergoingtrainingforatrade,professionorvocation,whetherornotwhileingainful
employment;or
(b) Therearespecialcircumstanceswhichjustifythemakingofanorderwithoutcomplying
withthatparagraph.
(3)Anorderforperiodicalpaymentsmadeunderparagraph1(2)(a)or2(2)(a)ofthisScheduleshall,
notwithstandinganythingintheorder,ceasetohaveeffectonthedeathofthepersonliabletomake
paymentsundertheorder.
(4)Whereanorderismadeunderparagraph1(2)(a)or(b)ofthisSchedulerequiringperiodical
paymentstobemadeorsecuredtotheparentofachild,theordershallceasetohaveeffectifparent
makingorsecuringthepaymentsandparenttowhomthepaymentsaremadeorsecured,livetogether
foraperiodofmorethansixmonths.
MatterstowhichCourtistohaveregardinmakingordersforfinancialrelief
4.(1)Indecidingwhethertoexerciseitspowersunderparagraph1or2ofthisScheduleandifso,in
whatmanner,theCourtshallhaveregardtoallthecircumstancesofthecase,including
(a) theincome,earningcapacity,propertyandotherfinancialresourceswhicheachperson
mentionedinsubparagraph(4)ofthisparagraphhasorislikelytohaveinthe
foreseeablefuture;
(b) thefinancialneeds,obligationsandresponsibilitieswhicheachpersonmentionedinSub
paragraph(4)ofthisparagraphhasorislikelytohaveintheforeseeablefuture;
(c) thefinancialneedsofthechild;
(d) theincome,earningcapacity(ifany),propertyandotherfinancialresourcesofthechild;
(e) anyphysicalormentaldisabilityofthechild;
(f) themannerinwhichthechildwasbeing,orwasexpectedtobe,educatedortrained.
(2)Indecidingwhethertoexerciseitspowersunderparagraph1ofthisScheduleagainstaperson
whoisnotthemotherorfatherofthechild,andifsoinwhatmanner,theCourtshallinadditionhave
regardto
(a) whetherthatpersonhadassumedresponsibilityforthemaintenanceofthechildand,if
so,theextenttowhichandbasisonwhichheassumedthatresponsibilityandthe
lengthoftheperiodduringwhichhemetthatresponsibility
(b) whetherhedidsoknowingthatthechildwasnothischild;and
(c) theliabilityofanyotherpersontomaintainthechild.
(3)WheretheCourtmakesanorderunderparagraph1ofthisScheduleagainstapersonwhoisnot
thefatherofthechild,itshallrecordintheorderthattheorderismadeonthebasisthattheperson
againstwhomtheorderismadeisnotthechild'sfather.
(4)ThepersonsmentionedinSubparagraph(1)ofthisparagraphare
(a) inrelationtoadecisionwhethertoexerciseitspowersunderparagraph1ofthis
Schedule,anyparentofthechild;
(b) inrelationtoadecisionwhethertoexerciseitspowersunderparagraph2ofthis
Schedule,themotherandfatherofthechild;
(c) theapplicantfortheorder;
(d) anyotherpersoninwhosefavourtheCourtproposestomaketheorder.
Provisionsrelatingtolumpsums
5.(1)Withoutprejudicetothegeneralityofparagraph1ofthisSchedule,anorderunderthatparagraph
forthepaymentofalumpsummaybemadeforthepurposeofenablinganyliabilitiesorexpenses
(a) Incurredinconnectionwiththebirthofthechildorinmaintainingthechild;and
(b) reasonablyincurredbeforethemakingoftheorder;tobemet.
(2)TheamountofanylumpsumrequiredtobepaidbyanordermadebytheCourtattheMagisterial
levelunderparagraph1or2ofthisScheduleshallnotexceedtwentyfivethousandnairaorsuchlarger
amountastheMinistermay,fromtimetotime,byorderfixforthepurposesofthissubparagraph.
(3)ThepoweroftheCourtunderparagraph1or2ofthisScheduletovaryordischargeanorderforthe
makingorsecuringofperiodicalpaymentsbyaparentshallincludepowertomakeanorderunderthat
provisionforthepaymentofalumpsumbythatparent.
(4)TheamountofanylumpsumwhichaparentmayberequiredtopaybyvirtueofSubparagraph(3)
ofthisparagraphshallnot,inthecaseofanordermadebytheCourtattheMagisteriallevel,exceedthe
maximumamountthatmayatthetimeofthemakingoftheorderberequiredtobepaidunder
subparagraph(2)ofthisparagraph,buttheCourtattheMagisteriallevelmaymakeanorderforthe,
paymentofalumpsumnotexceedingthatamounteventhoughtheparentwasrequiredtopayalump
sumbyapreviousorderunderthisAct.
(5)Anordermadeunderparagraph1or2ofthisScheduleforthepaymentofalumpsummayprovide
forthepaymentofthatsumbyinstallments.
(6)WheretheCourtprovidesforthepaymentofalumpsumbyinstallments,theCourtshallonan
applicationmadeeitherbythepersonliabletopayorthepersonentitledtoreceivethatsum,have
powertovarythatorderbyvarying
(a) thenumberofinstallmentspayable;
(b) theamountofanyinstallmentpayable;
(c) thedateonwhichanyinstalmentbecomespayable.
6.(1)Inexercisingitspowersunderparagraph1or2ofthisScheduletovaryordischargeanorderfor
themakingorsecuringofperiodicalpayments,theCourtshallhaveregardtoallthecircumstancesof
thecase,includinganychangeinanyofthematterstowhichthecourtwasrequiredtohaveregard
whenmakingtheorder.
(2)ThepoweroftheCourtunderparagraph1or2ofthisScheduletovaryanorderforthemakingor
securingofperiodicalpaymentsshallincludepowertosuspendanyprovisionoftheordertemporarily
andtoreviveanyprovisionsosuspended.
(3)Where,onanapplicationunderparagraph1or2ofthisScheduleforthevariationordischargeof
anordermakingorsecuringofperiodicalpayments,theCourtvariesthepaymentsrequiredtobemade
underthator,theCourtmayprovidethatthepaymentsassovariedshallbemadefromsuchdateas
theCourtmayspecify,notbeingearlierthanthedateofthemakingoftheapplication.
(4)AnapplicationforthevariationofanordermadeunderparagraphIofthisScheduleforthe
makingorsecuringofperiodicalpaymentstoorforthebenefitofachildmay.ifthechildhasattained
theageofsixteenyears,bemadebythechildhimself.
(5)Whereanorderforthemakingorsecuringofperiodicalpaymentsmadeunderparagraph1ofthis
Scheduleceasestohaveeffectonthedateonwhichthechildattainstheageofsixteenyears,oratany
timeafterthatdateonbeforeoron,thedateonwhichthechildattainstheageofeighteenyears,the
childmayapplytotheCourtwhichmadetheorderforanorderforitsrevival.
(6)Ifonanapplicationundersubparagraph(5)oftheparagraphitappearstotheCourtthat
(a) thechildis,willbeor(ifanorderweremadeunderthissubparagraph)wouldbe
receivinginstructionataneducationalestablishmentorundergoingtrainingforatrade,
professionorvocation,whetherornotwhileingainfulemployment;or
(b) therearespecialcircumstanceswhichjustifythemakingofanorderunderthis
paragraph,
theCourtshallhavepowerbyordertorevivetheorderfromsuchdateastheCourtmayspecify,not
beingearlierthanthedateofthemakingoftheapplication.
(7)Anorderwhichisrevivedbyanorderundersubparagraph(5)ofthisparagraphmaybevariedor
dischargedunderthatSubparagraph,ontheapplicationofanypersonbywhomortowhompayments
arerequitedtobemadeundertherevivedorder.
(8)Anorderforthemakingorsecuringofperiodicalpaymentsmadeunderparagraph1ofthis
Schedulemaybevariedordischarged,afterthedeathofeitherparents,ontheapplicationofaguardian
ofthechildconcerned.
Variationofordersforsecuredperiodicalpaymentsafterdeathofaparent
7.(1)Wheretheparentliabletomakepaymentsunderasecuredperiodicalpaymentsorderhasdied,
thepersonwhomayapplyforthevariationordischargeoftheorderincludethepersonal
representativesofthedeceasedparent.
(2)Anapplicationforthevariationoftheordershall,exceptwiththepermissionoftheCourt,be
madeaftertheendoftheperiodofsixmonthsfromthedateonwhichrepresentationinregardtothe
stateofthatparentisfirsttakenout.
(3)Thepersonalrepresentativeofadeceasedpersonagainstwhomasecuredperiodicalpayments
orderwasmade,shallnotbeliableforhavingdistributedanypartoftheestateofthedeceasedperson
aftertheendoftheperiodofsixmonthsreferredtoinsubparagraph(2)ofthisparagraphonthe
groundthattheyoughttohavetakenintoaccountthepossibilitythattheCourtmightpermitan
applicationforvariationtobemadeafterperiodbythepersonentitledtopaymentsundertheorder.
(4)Subparagraph(3)ofthisparagraphshallnotprejudiceanypowertorecoveranypartoftheestate
sodistributedarisingbyvirtueofthevariationofanorderinaccordancewiththisparagraph.
(5)Whereanapplicationtovaryasecuredperiodicalpaymentsorderismadeafterthedeathofthe
parentliabletomakepaymentsundertheorderthecircumstancestowhichtheCourt1srequiredto
haveregardunderparagraph6(1)ofthisScheduleincludethechangedcircumstancesresultingfrom
thedeathoftheparent.
(6)InconsideringforthepurposesofSubparagraph(2)ofthisparagraphthequestionwhen
representationwasfirsttakenout,agrantlimitedtosettledlandortotrustpropertyshallbeleftoutof
accountandagrantlimitedtorealestateortopersonalestateshallbeleftoutofaccountunlessagrant
limitedtotheremainderofthestatehaspreviouslybeenmadeorismadeatthesametime.
(7)Inthisparagraph,"securedperiodicalpaymentsorder"meansanorderforsecuredperiodical
paymentsunderparagraph1(2)(b)ofthisSchedule.
Financialreliefunderotherenactments
8.(1)Thisparagraphapplieswherearesidenceorderismadewithrespecttoachildatatimewhen
thereisinforceanorder("thefinancialrelieforder")madeunderanyenactmentotherthanthisAct
andrequiringapentocontributetothechild'smaintenance.
(2)Wherethisparagraphapplies,theCourtmay,ontheapplicationof
(a) anypersonrequiredbythefinancialreliefordertocontributetothechild's
maintenance;or
(b) anypersoninwhosefavouraresidenceorderwithrespecttothechildisinforce;
makeanorderrevokingthefinancialrelieforder,orvaryingitbyalteringtheamountofanysum
payableunderthatorderorbysubstitutingtheapplicantforthepersontowhomanysuchsumis
otherwisepayableunderthatorder.
InterimOrders
9.(1)Whereanapplicationismadeunderparagraph1or2ofthisSchedule,theCourtmay,atanytime
beforeitdisposesoftheapplication,makeaninterimorder
(a) requiringeitherorbothparentsofachildtomakesuchperiodicalpayments,atsuch
timeandforsuchtermastheCourtthinksfit;and
(b) givinganydirectionwhichtheCourtthinksfit.
(2)Aninterimordermadeunderthisparagraphmayprovideforpaymentstobemadefromsuchdate
astheCourtmayspecify,notbeingearlierthanthedateofthemakingoftheapplicationunder
paragraph1or2ofthisSchedule
(3)Aninterimordermadeunderthisparagraphshallceasetohaveeffectwhentheapplicationis
disposedofor,itearlier,onthedatespecifiedforthepurposesofthisparagraphintheinterimorder.
(4)Aninterimorderinwhichadatehasbeenspecifiedforthepurposeofsubparagraph(3)ofthis
paragraphmayrevariedbysubstitutingalaterdate.
Alterationofmaintenanceagreements
10.(1)Inthisparagraphandinparagraph11ofthisSchedule,"maintenanceagreement"meansany
agreementinwritingmadewithrespecttoachild,whetherbeforeorafterthecommencementofthis
paragraph,which
(a) isorwasmadebetweenthefatherandmotherofthechildand
(b) containsprovisionswithrespecttothemakingorsecuringofpayments,orthe
dispositionoruseofanyproperty,forthemaintenanceoreducationofthechildand
anysuchprovisionsareinthisparagraphandparagraph11ofthisschedulereferredto
as"financialarrangements".
(2)Whereamaintenanceagreementisforthetimebeingsubsistingandeachofthepartiestothe
maintenanceagreementisforthetimebeingeitherdomiciledorresidentintheState,eitherpartymay
applytotheCourtforanorderunderthisparagraph.
(3)IftheCourttowhichtheapplicationismadeissatisfied
(a) that,byreasonofachangeinthecircumstancesinthelightofwhichanyfinancial
arrangementscontainedinthemaintenanceagreementweremade(includingachange
foreseenbythepartieswhenmakingthemaintenanceagreement),themaintenance
agreementshallbealteredsoastomakedifferentfinancialarrangements;or
(b) thattheagreementdoesnotcontainproperfinancialarrangementswithrespecttothe
child,
thatCourtmaybyordermakesuchalterationsinthemaintenanceagreementbyvaryingorrevoking
anyfinancialarrangementscontainedinitasmayappeartoittobejusthavingregardtoallthe
circumstancesofthecase.
(4)Ifthemaintenanceagreementisalteredbyanorderunderthisparagraph,themaintenance
agreementshallhaveeffectthereafterasifthealterationhadbeenmadebyagreementbetweenthe
partiesandforvaluableconsideration.
(5)WhereaCourtdecidestomakeanorderunderthisparagraphalteringthemaintenance
agreement
(a) byinsertingprovisionforthemakingorsecuringbyoneofthepartiestothe
maintenanceagreementofperiodicalpaymentsforthemaintenanceofthechild;or
(b) byincreasingtherateofperiodicalpaymentsrequiredtobemadeorsecuredbyoneof
thepartiesforthemaintenanceofthechild,
theCourt,decidingthetermforwhichundertheagreementasalteredbytheorderthepaymentsor(as
thecasemaybe)theadditionalpaymentsattributabletotheIncreasearetobemadeorsecuredforthe
benefitofthechild,shallapplytheprovisionsofparagraphs3(1)and(2)ofthisScheduleasiftheorder
wereanorderunderparagraph1(2)(a)or(b)ofthisSchedule.
(6)TheCourtattheMagisteriallevelshallnotentertainanapplicationundersubparagraph(2)ofthis
paragraphunlessboththepartiestothemaintenanceagreementareresidentintheStateandshallnot
havepowertomakeanyorderonsuchanapplicationexcept
(a) inacasewherethemaintenanceagreementcontainsnoprovisionforperiodical
paymentsbyeitheroftheparties,anorderinsertingprovisionforthemakingbyoneof
thepartiesofperiodicalpaymentsforthemaintenanceofthechild;and
(b) inacasewherethemaintenanceagreementincludesprovisionsforthemakingbyone
ofthepartiesofperiodicalpayments,anorderincreasingorreducingtherateof,or
terminating,anyofthosepayments.
(7)Fortheavoidanceofdoubt,itisherebydeclaredthatnothinginthisparagraphaffectsanypower
ofaCourtbeforewhichanyproceedingsbetweenthepartiestoamaintenanceagreementarebrought
underanyotherenactmenttomakeanordercontainingfinancialarrangementsortherightofeither
partytoapplyforsuchanorderintheproceedings.
11.(1)Whereamaintenanceagreementprovidesforthecontinuation,afterthedeathofoneofthe
parties,ofpaymentsforthemaintenanceofachild,thesurvivingpartyorthepersonalrepresentatives
ofthedeceasedpartymayapplytotheCourtforanorderunderparagraph10ofthisSchedule.
(2)IfamaintenanceagreementisalteredbyaCourtonanapplicationunderthisparagraph,the
maintenanceagreementshallhaveeffectthereafterasifthealterationhadbeenmade,immediately
beforethedeath,byagreementbetweenthepartiesandforvaluableconsideration.
(3)Anapplicationunderthisparagraphshallnotexceptwiththeleaveofthecourtbemadeafterthe
endoftheperiodofsixmonthsbeginningwiththedayonwhichrepresentationinregardtotheestate
ofthedeceasedisfirsttakenout.
(4)Inconsideringforthepurposeofsubparagraph(3)thequestionwhenrepresentationwasfirst
takenout,agrantlimitedtosettledlandortotrustpropertyshallbeleftoutofaccountandagrant
limitedtorealestateortopersonalestateshallbeleftoutofaccountunlessagrantlimitedtothe
remainderoftheestatehaspreviouslybeenmadeorismadeatthesametime.
(5)Theprovisionsofthisparagraphshallnotrenderthepersonalrepresentativeofthedeceased
liableforhavingdistributedanypartoftheestateofthedeceasedaftertheexpiryoftheperiodofsix
monthsreferredtoinsubparagraph(3)ofthisparagraphonthegroundthatheoughttohavetaken
intoaccountthepossibilitythataCourtmightgrantleaveforanapplicationbyvirtueofthisparagraph
tobemadebythesurvivingpartyafterthatperiod.
(6)Subparagraph(5)shallnotprejudiceanypowertorecoveranypartofthestatesodistributed
arisingbyvirtueofthemakingofanorderinpursuanceofthisparagraph.
(7)Inthisparagraph,maintenanceagreementandfinancialsagreementhavethemeaning
assignedtotheminparagraph10(1)ofthisSchedule.
Enforcementofordersformaintenance
12.(1)Anypersonforthetimebeingunderanobligationtomakepaymentsinpursuanceofanyorder
forthepaymentofmoneymadebyaCourtattheMagisteriallevelunderthisActshallgivenoticeofany
changeofaddresstosuchperson(ifany)asmaybespecifiedintheorder.
(2)Apersonwhofailswithoutreasonableexcusetogiveanoticecommitsanoffenceandisliableon
summaryconvictiontoafineoftwothousandfivehundredNairaorimprisonmentforatermnot
exceedingthreemonthsortobothsuchfineandimprisonment.
(3)AnorderforthepaymentofmoneymadebytheCourtunderthisActshallbeenforceableasa
MagistratesCourtmaintenanceorder.
Directionforsettlementofinstrumentbyregistrar
13.WheretheCourtdecidestomakeanorderunderthisActforthesecuringofperiodicalpaymentsor
forthetransferorsettlementofproperty,itmaydirectthatthematterbereferredtooneofthe
RegistrarsoftheCourttosettleaproperinstrumenttobeexecutedbyallnecessaryparties.
FinancialprovisionsforchildresidentinacountryoutsideNigeria
14.(1)WhereonepersonofachildlivesinaStateandthechildlivesoutsidetheStatewith
(a) hisotherparent;or
(b) hisguardians;or
(c) apersoninwhosefavouraresidenceorderisinforcewithrespecttothechild,the
Courtshallhavepower,byanapplicationmadebytheparent,guardianorpersontomakeoneorboth
oftheordersmentionedinparagraph1(2)(a)and(b)bythisScheduleagainsttheparentlivinginthe
State.
(2)AnyreferenceinthisActtothepowersoftheCourtunderparagraph1(2)ofthisScheduleorto
anordermadeunderparagraph1(2)orthisScheduleandincludeareferencetothepowerswhichthe
Courthasbyvirtueofsubparagraph(1)ofthisparagraphor(asthecasemaybe)toanordermadeby
virtueofsubparagraph(1)ofthisparagraph.
StateGovernmentcontributiontochildmaintenance
15.(1)Whereachildlives,oristolive,withapersonastheresultofaresidenceorder,theState
Governmentmaymakecontributionstothatpersontowardsthecostoftheaccommodationand
maintenanceoftheChild.
(2)Subparagraph(1)ofthisparagraphdoesnotapplywherethepersonwithwhomthechildlives,or
istolive,isaparentofthechildorthehusbandorwifeofaparentofthechild.
Interpretation
16.(1)InthisSchedule
(a) "child"includes,inanycasewhereailapplicationismadeunderparagraph2or6ofthis
Scheduleinrelationtoapersonwhohasattainedtheageofeighteenyears;
(b) exceptparagraphs2and15ofthisSchedule,"parent"includesanypartytoamarriage
(whetherornotsubsisting)inrelationtowhomthechildconcernedisachildofthe
family,andforthispurposeanyreferencetoeitherparentorbothparentsshallbe
constitutedasareferencestoanyparentofthechildandtoallofhisparents.
_____________________________

SECONDSCHEDULE
[Section57(2),58(8)and60(9).]
SupervisionOrders
PARTI
General
Meaningof"responsibleperson"
1.ForthepurposesofthisSchedule,aresponsibleperson,inrelationtoasupervisedchild
(a) isapersonwhohasparentalresponsibilityforthechild;and
(b) isanyotherpersonwithwhomthechildisliving.
2.(1)Asupervisionordermayrequirethesupervisedchildtocomplywithanydirectiongivenfromtime
totimebythesupervisorwhichrequiresthesupervisedchildtodoalloranyofthefollowingthings
(a) toliveataplaceorplacesspecifiedinthedirectionforaperiodorperiodssospecified;
(b) topresenthimselftoapersonorpersonsspecifiedinthedirectionataplaceorplaces
andonadaysospecified;
(c) toparticipateinactivitiesspecifiedinthedirectiononadayordayssospecified.
(2)Itshallbeforthesupervisortodecidewhether,andtowhatextent,heexerciseshispowertogive
directionsandtodecidetheformofanydirectionwhichhegives.
(3)Subparagraph(1)ofthisparagraphdoesnotconferonasupervisorpowertogivedirectionsin
respectofanymedicalorpsychiatricexaminationortreatmentwhicharematterdealtwithin
paragraphs4and5ofthisSchedule.
Impositionofobligationsonresponsibleperson
3.(1)Withtheconsentofanyresponsibleperson,asupervisionordermayincludearequirement
(a) thathetakesallreasonablestepstoensurethatthesupervisedchildcomplieswithany
directiongivenbytheSupervisorunderparagraph2ofthisSchedule;
(b) thathetakesallreasonablestepstoensurethatthesupervisedchildcomplieswithany
requirementincludedintheorderunderparagraph4or5ofthisSchedule;
(c) thathecomplieswithanydirectiongivenbythesupervisorrequiringhimtoattendata
placespecifiedinthedirectionforthepurposeoftakingpartinactivitiessospecified.
(2)Adirectiongivenundersubparagraph(1)(c)ofthisparagraphmayspecifythetimeatwhichthe
responsiblepersonistoattendandwhetherornotthesupervisedchildisrequiredtoattendwithhim.
(3)Asupervisionordermayrequireapersonwhoisaresponsiblepersoninrelationtothesupervised
childtokeepthesupervisorinformedofhisaddress,ifitdiffersfromthatofthechild.
Psychiatricandmedicalexamination
4.(1)Asupervisionordermayrequirethesupervisedchild
(a) tosubmittoamedicalorpsychiatricexamination;or
(b) tosubmittoanysuchexaminationfromtimetotimeasdirectedbytheSupervisor;
(2)Anexaminationundersubparagraph(1)ofthisparagraphshallberequiredtobeconducted
(a) byorunderthedirectionofsuchmedicalpractitionerasmaybespecifiedintheorder;
(b) ataplacespecifiedintheorderandatwhichthesupervisedchildistoattendasnon
residentpatient;or
(c)at
(i) ahealthservicehospital;or
(ii) inthecaseofpsychiatricexaminationahospitalormentalnursinghomeat
whichthesupervisedchildisoristoattendasaresidentpatient.
(3)Arequirementofakindmentionedinsubparagraph(2)(c)ofthisparagraphshallnotbe
includedunlesstheCourtissatisfied,ontheevidenceofamedicalpractitionerthat
(a) thechildmaybesufferingfromaphysicalormentalconditionthatrequiresandmaybe
susceptibleto,treatment;and
(b) aperiodasaresidentpatientisnecessaryiftheexaminationistobecarriedout
properly.
(4)NoCourtshallincludearequirementunderthisparagraphinasupervisionorderunlessitis
satisfiedthat
(a) wherethechildhassufficientunderstandingtomakeaninformeddecisionheconsents
toitsinclusion;and
(b) satisfactoryarrangementshavebeenorcanbe,madefortheexamination.
(5)Inthisparagraphandinparagraph5ofthisSchedule,"medicalpractitioner"meansamedical
practitionerregisteredundertheMedicalandDentalPractitionersActCap.M8LawsoftheFederation
ofNigeria,2004.
Psychiatricandmedicaltreatment
5.(1)WhereaCourtwhichproposestomakeorvaryasupervisionorderissatisfiedontheevidenceofa
medicalpractitionerthatthemetalconditionofthesupervisedchild
(a) issuchasrequiresandmaybesusceptibleto,treatment;but
(b) isnotsuchastowarranthisdetentioninpursuanceofahospitalorder;
thecourtmayincludeintheorderarequirementthatthesupervisedchildshallforaperiodspecifiedin
theorder,submittosuchtreatmentasissospecified.
(2)Thetreatmentspecifiedinaccordancewithsubparagraph(1)ofthisparagraphshallbe
(a) by,orunderthedirectionofsuchmedicalpractitionerasmaybespecifiedintheorder;
and
(b) asanonresidentpatientatsuchplaceasmaybesospecified;or
(c) asaresidentpatientinahospitalormentalnursinghome.
(3)WhereaCourtwhichproposestomakeorvaryasupervisionorderissatisfied,ontheevidenceof
amedicalpractitioner;thatthephysicalconditionofthesupervisedchildissuchasrequires,andmaybe
susceptibleto,treatment,theCourtmayincludeintheorderarequirementthatthesupervisedchild
shallforaperiodspecifiedintheordersubmittosuchtreatmentasissospecified.
(4)Thetreatmentspecified,inaccordancewithsubparagraph(3)ofthisparagraphshallbe
(a) by,orunderthedirectionofsuchmedicalpractitionerasmaybespecifiedintheorder;
and
(b) asanonresidentpatientatsuchplaceasmaybesospecified,or
(c) asaresidentpatientinGovernmenthospital.
(5)NoCourtshallincludearequirementunderthisparagraphinasupervisionorderunlessitis
satisfied
(a) wherethechildhassufficientunderstandingtomakeaninformeddecision,thathe
consentstoitsinclusion;and
(b) thatsatisfactoryarrangementshavebeenorcanbemadeforthetreatment.
(6)Ifamedicalpractitionerbywhomorunderwhosedirectionasupervisedpersonisbeingtreatedin
pursuanceofrequirementincludedinaSupervisionorderbyvirtueofthisparagraphisunwillingto
continuetotreatordirectthetreatmentofthesupervisedchildorisoftheopinionthat
(a) thetreatmentshouldbecontinuedbeyondtheperiodspecifiedintheorder,or
(b) thesupervisedchildneedsdifferenttreatment;or
(c) heisnotsusceptibletotreatment;or
(d) hedoesnotrequirefurthertreatment,
themedicalpractitionershallmakeareportinwritingtothateffecttothesupervisor.
(7)Onreceivingareportunderthisparagraph,thesupervisorshallreferittotheCourt,andonsucha
reference,theCourtmaymakeanordercancelingorvaryingtherequirement..
(8)Inthisparagraph,"MedicalPractitioner"hasthesamemeaningassignedtoitunderparagraph4
(5)ofthisSchedule.
PARTII
Miscellaneous
Lifeofsupervisionorder
6.(1)Subjecttosubparagraph(2)ofthisparagraphandsection54ofthisAct,asupervisionordershall
ceasetohaveeffectattheendoftheperiodofoneyearbeginningwiththedateonwhichitwasmade.
(2)WherethesupervisorappliestotheCourttoextend,orfurtherextend,asupervisionorderthe
Courtmayextendtheorder,forsuchperiodasitmayspecify.
(3)Asupervisionordermaynotbeextendedsoastorunbeyondtheendoftheperiodofthreeyears
beginningwiththedateonwhichitwasmade.
Limitedlifeofdirections
7.(1)Thetotalnumberofdaysinrespectofwhichasupervisedchildor(asthecasemaybe)a
responsiblepersonmayberequiredtocomplywithdirectionsgivenunderparagraph2or3ofthis
Scheduleshallnotexceedninetydaysorsuchlessernumber(ifany)asthesupervisionordermay
specify.
(2)Forthepurposeofcalculatingthetotalnumberofdays,thesupervisormaydisregardanydayin
respectofwhichdirectionspreviouslygiveninpursuanceoftheorderwasnotcompliedwith.
Informationtobegiventosupervisor,etc.
8.(1)Asupervisionordermayrequirethesupervisedchild
(a) tokeepthesupervisorinformedofanychangeinhisaddress;and
(b) toallowthesupervisortovisithimattheplacewhereheisliving.
(2)Theresponsiblepersoninrelationtoanychildwithrespecttowhomasupervisionorderismade
shall
(a) ifaskedbythesupervisorinformhimofthechild'saddress(ifitisknowntohim);and
(b) ifheislivingwiththechildallowthesupervisorreasonablecontactwiththechild.
9.(1)AsupervisionordershallnotdesignateaStateGovernmentasthesupervisorunless
(a) theStateGovernmentagrees;or
(b) thesupervisedchildlivesorwilllivewithintheState.
(2)Acourtshallnotplaceachildunderthesupervisionofasupervisionofficerunless
(a) theStateGovernmentsorequests;and
(b) asupervisionofficerisalreadyexercisingorhasexercisedinrelationtoanothermember
ofthehouseholdtowhichthechildbelongs,dutiesimposedonsupervisionofficers
underthisAct.
(3)Whereasupervisionorderplacesapersonunderthesupervisionofasupervisionofficerthe
supervisionofficershallbeselectedinaccordancewitharrangementsmadebythesupervisionService
fortheareainquestion.
(4)Iftheselectedsupervisionofficerisunabletocarryouthisduties,ordies,anothersupervision
officershallbeselectedinthesamemanner.
Effectofsupervisionorderonearlierorders
10.Themakingofasupervisionorderwithrespecttoachildbringstoanendanyearliercareorderor
supervisionorderwhich
(a) wasmadewithrespecttothatchild;and
(b) wouldotherwisecontinueinforce.
StateGovernmentfunctionsandexpenditure
11.(1)TheMinistermaymakeregulationswithrespecttotheexercisebyaStateGovernmentofits
functionswhereachildhasbeenplacedunderitssupervisionbyasupervisionorder,
(2)Whereasupervisionorderrequirescompliancewithdirectiongivenbyvirtueofthispartofthis
ScheduleanyexpenditureincurredbytheSupervisorforthepurposesofthedirectionsshallbedefrayed
bytheStateGovernmentdesignatedintheorder.
PARTIII
EducationSupervisionOrders
Effectoforders
12.(1)Whereaneducationsupervisionorderisinforcewithrespecttoachild,thesupervisionshall
(a) advise,assistandbefriendandgivedirectionto
(i) thesupervisedchild;and
(ii) theparentsorthesupervisedchild,
insuchawayasmay,intheopinionofthesupervisor,securethatthechildisproperly
educated;
(b) whereanysuchdirectiongivento
(i) thesupervisedchild;or
(ii) aparentofhis,
hasnotbeencompliedwith,considerwhatfurtherstepstotakeintheexerciseofthesupervisor's
powersunderthisAct.
(2)Beforegivinganydirectionsundersubparagraph(1)ofthisparagraph,thesupervisorshall,so
farasisreasonablypracticableascertainthewishesandfeelingsof
(a) thesupervisedchild;and
(b) theparentsofthesupervisedchild,
including,inparticular,theirwishesastotheplaceatwhichthechildshouldbeeducated.
(3)Whensettlingthetermsofanysuchdirections,thesupervisorshallgivedueconsideration
(a) havingregardtothechild'sageandunderstandingtohiswishesandfeelings;and
(b) tosuchwishesandfeelingsofthechild'sparents,asthesupervisorhasbeenable
toascertain.
(4)Directionsmaybegivenunderthisparagraphatanytimewhiletheeducationsupervisionorder
isinforce.
13.(1)Whereaneducationsupervisionorderisinforcewithrespecttoachild,thedutiesofthechild's
parentsunderthisActtosecureeducationforthechildandtosecureregularschoolattendingatSchool
shallbesupersededbytheirdutytocomplywithanydirectionsinforceundertheeducationsupervision
order.
(2)Whereaneducationsupervisionorderismadewithrespecttoachild
(a) anyschoolattendanceorderinforceimmediatelybeforethemakingofthe
educationsupervisionordershallceasetohaveeffect;
(b) asupervisionordermadewithrespecttothechildincriminalproceedings,whilethe
educationsupervisionorderisinforce,shallnotincludeaneducationrequirementof
thekindwhichcouldotherwiseberequiredunderthisAct;and
(c) anyeducationrequirementofakindmentionedinsubparagraph(2)(b)ofthis
paragraph,whichwasinforcewithrespecttothechildimmediatelybeforethemaking
oftheeducationsupervisionorder,shallceasetohaveeffect.
Effectwherechildalsosubjecttosupervisionorder
14.Whereaneducationsupervisionorderandasupervisionorder,areinforceatthesametimewith
respecttothesamechild,anyfailuretocomplywithadirectiongivenbythesupervisorunderthe
educationsupervisionordershallbedisregardedifitwouldnothavebeenreasonablypracticableto
complywithitwithoutfailingtocomplywithadirectiongivenundertheotherorder.
Durationoforders
15.(1)Aneducationsupervisionordershallhaveeffectforaperiodofoneyear,beginningwiththedate
onwhichitismade.
(2)Aneducationsupervisionordershallnotexpireif,beforeitwouldotherwisehaveexpired,the
Courthas(ontheapplicationoftheStateGovernmentinwhosefavourtheorderwasmade)extended
theperiodduringwhichitisinforce.
(3)Suchanapplicationshallnotbemadeearlierthan,threemonthsbeforethedateonwhichthe
orderwouldotherwiseexpire.
(4)Theperiodduringwhichaneducationsupervisionorderisinforcemaybeextendedunder
subparagraph(2)orthisparagraphonmorethanoneoccasion.
(5)Nosingleextensionmaybemadeforaperiodofmorethanthreeyears.
(6)Aneducationsupervisionordershallceasetohaveeffecton
(a) thechild'sceasingtobeofcompulsoryschoolage;or
(b) themakingofacareorderwithrespecttothechild,andsubparagraphs(1)to(4)ofthis
paragrapharesubjecttothissubparagraph.
Informationtobegiventosupervisor,etc.
16.(1)Aneducationsupervisionordermayrequirethechild
(a) tokeepthesupervisorinformedofanychangeinhisaddress;and
(b) toallowthesupervisortovisithimattheplacewhereheisliving.
(2)Apersonwhoistheparentofachildwithrespecttowhomaneducationsupervisionorderhas
beenmadeshall
(a) ifaskedbythesupervisor,informhimofthechild'saddressifitisknowntohim;and
(b) ifheislivingwiththechild,allowthesupervisorreasonablecontactwiththechild.
Dischargeoforders
17.(1)TheCourtmaydischargeaneducationsupervisionorderontheapplicationof
(a) thechildconcerned;or
(b) aparentofthechildconcerned;or
(c) theeducationauthorityconcerned.
(2)Ondischarginganeducationsupervisionorder,theCourtmaydirectthestateGovernment
withinwhoseareathechildlives,orwilllive,toinvestigatethecircumstancesofthechild.
18.(1)Ifaparentofachildwithrespecttowhomaneducationsupervisionorderisinforcepersistently
failstocomplywithadirectiongivenundertheorderhecommitsanoffence.
(2)Itshallbeadefenceforanypersonchargedwithsuchanoffencetoprovethat
(a) hetookallreasonablestepstoensurethatthedirectionwascompliedwith;
(b) thedirectionwasunreasonable;or
(c) hehadcompliedwith
(i) arequirementincludedinasupervisionordermadewithrespecttothechild;or
(ii) directionsgivenundersucharequirement,
andthatitwasnotreasonablypracticabletocomplybothwiththedirectionandwiththerequirement
ordirectionsmentionedinthisparagraph.
(3)Apersonwhocommitsanoffenceunderthisparagraphisliableonsummaryconvictiontoafine
notexceedingtwothousandfivehundredNairaorimprisonmentforatermnotexceedingthreemonths
ortobothsuchfineandimprisonment.
Persistentfailureofchildtocomplywithdirections
19.(1)Whereachildwithrespecttowhomaneducationsupervisionorderisinforcepersistentlyfails
tocomplywithanydirectiongivenundertheorder,theeducationauthorityconcernedshallnotifythe
StateGovernment.
(2)WhereaStateGovernmenthasbeennotifiedunderSubparagraph(1)ofthisparagraphitshall
investigatethecircumstancesofthechild.
Miscellaneous
20.TheMinistermaybyregulationsmakeprovisionsmodifying,ordisplacing,theprovisionsofany
enactmentabouteducationinrelationtoanychildwithrespecttowhomaneducationsupervision
orderisinforcetosuchextentasappears.
________________________
THIRDSCHEDULE
[Section100.]
ApplicationforWardship
Applicationforwardshipshall
(a) bebyoriginatingsummons;and
(b) statetherelationshipoftheplaintifftotheward.
________________________
FOURTHSCHEDULE
[Sections112(2),120(3),122(5)]
PARTI
FosterParents:LimitsonnumberofFosterChildren
FosteringChildren
1.ForthepurposesofthisSchedule,apersonfostersachildif
(a) heisaStateGovernmentfosterparentinrelationtothechild;
(b) heisafosterparentwithwhomthechildhasbeenplacedbyavoluntaryorganisation;
or
(c) hefostersthechildprivately.
Theusualfosteringlimit
2.SubjecttothefollowingparagraphsofthisSchedule,apersonmaynotfastermorethanthree
childrenwhichistheusualfosteringlimit.
Siblings
3.Apersonmayexceedtheusualfosteringlimitifthechildrenconcernedareallsiblingswithrespectto
eachother.
ExemptionbyStateGovernment
4.(1)ApersonmayexceedtheusualfosteringlimitifheisexemptedfromitbytheGovernmentofthe
Statehelivesin.
(2)Inconsideringwhethertoexemptaperson,aStareGovernmentshallhaveregard,inparticular,
to
(a) thenumberofchildrenwhothepersonproposestofoster;
(b) thearrangementswhichthepersonproposesforthecareandaccommodationofthe
fosteredchildren;
(c) theintendedandlikelyrelationshipbetweenthepersonandthefosteredchildren;
(d) theperiodoftimeforwhichheproposestofosterthechildren;and
(e) whetherthewelfareofthefosteredchildren(andofanyotherchildrenwhoareorwill
belivingintheaccommodation)willbesafeguardedandpromoted.
(3)WhereaStateGovernmentexemptsaperson,itshallinformhimbynoticeinwriting
(a) thatheissoexempted;
(b) ofthechildren,describedbyname,whomhemayfoster;and
(c) ofanyconditiontowhichtheexemptionissubject.
(4)AStateGovernmentmayatanytimebynoticeinwriting
(a) varyorcancelanexemption;or
(b) impose,varyorcancelaconditiontowhichtheexemptionissubject,andinconsidering
whethertodoso,itshallhaveregardinparticulartotheconsiderationsmentionedin
subparagraph(2)ofthisparagraph.
(5)TheMinistermaymakeregulationsamplifyingormodifyingtheprovisionsofthisparagraphin
ordertoprovideforcaseswherechildrenneedtobeplacedwithfosterparentsasamatterofurgency.
Effectofexceedingfosteringlimit
5.(1)Apersonshallceasetobetreatedasfosteringchildrenandshallbetreatedascarryingona
children'shomeif
(a) heexceedstheusualfosteringlimit;or
(b) whereheisexemptedunderparagraph4ofthisSchedule
(i) hefostersanychildnotnamedintheexemptionand
(ii) insodoing,heexceedstheusualfosteringlimit.
(2)Subparagraph(1)ofthisparagraphdoesnotapplyifthechildrenconcernedareallsiblingsin
respectofeachother.
Complaints,etc.
6.(1)EveryStateGovernmentshallestablishaprocedureforconsideringanyrepresentations(including
anycomplaint)madetoitaboutthedischargeofitsfunctionsunderparagraph4ofthisSchedulebya
personexemptedorseekingtobeexemptedunderthatparagraph.
(2)Incarryingoutanyconsiderationofrepresentationsundersubparagraph(1)ofthisparagraph,a
StateGovernmentshallcomplywithanyregulationsmadebytheMinisterforthepurposesofthis
paragraph.
PARTII
[Section112.]
FormsofFosteredChildrenRegister

Registry..Town..L.G.A..State
1.

2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
No.ofentry

Dateofentry Nameof
FosteredChild
(enternameas
statedin
Fostering
Order)
SexofFostered
Child(entersex
asstatedin
adoption
Order)
Nameand
surnameaddress
andoccupation
offosterparents
(entername
addressand
occupationas
statedin
adoptionOrder)
Dateofbirthof
child(enter
dateofbirth(if
anydirectedby
theadoption
Ordertobe
enteredbut
otherentry
Dateoffostering
Orderand
descriptionof
Courtbywhich
made(entrytobe
asappearingon
theFostering
order)
Signatureof
Officerdeputedby
ChiefRegistrarto
attestentry

PARTIII
[Sections120and121.]
CHILDRENFOSTEREDPRIVATELY
Exemptions
1.AchildisnotfosteredprivatelywhileheisbeinglookedafterbyaStateGovernment.
2.(1)Achildisnotfosteredprivatelywhileheisincareofanyperson
(a) inpremisesinwhich
(i) parentofthechild;or
(ii) apersonwho,thoughnotaparentofachildhasparentalresponsibilityforthe
child,
(iii) apersonwhoisarelativeofthechildandwhohasassumedresponsibilityfor
hiscare,isforthetimebeingliving;
(b) inachildren'shome;
(c) inanaccommodationprovidedbyoronbehalfofanyvoluntaryorganization;
(d) inaschoolinwhichheisreceivingfulltimeeducation;
(e) inaresidentialcarehome,nursinghomeormentalnursinghome;or
(f) inanyhomeorinstitutionnotspecifiedinthisparagraphbutprovided,equippedand
maintainedbytheGovernment.
(2)Subparagraph(1)(b)to(g)ofthisparagraphdoesnotapplywherethepersoncaringforthechildis
doingsoinhispersonalcapacityandnotinthecourseofcarryingouthisdutiesinrelationtothe
establishmentmentionedinthesubparagraphinquestion.
3.Achildisnotfosteredprivatelywhile
(a) heisplacedinthecareofapersonwhoproposestoadopthimunderthisAct;or
(b) heisaprotectedchild.
PowerofStateGovernmenttoimposerequirements
4.(1)Whereapersonisfosteringachildprivately,orproposestofosteranychildprivately,the
appropriateauthoritymayimposeonhimrequirementsasto
(a)thenumber,ageandsexofthechildrenwhomaybefosteredprivatelybyhim;
(b)thestandardoftheaccommodationandequipmenttobeprovidedforthem;
(c)thearrangementtobemadewithrespecttotheirhealthandsafety;and
(d)particulararrangementswhichshallbemadewithrespecttotheprovisionofcareforthem,
anditshallbehisdutytocomplywithanysuchrequirementbeforetheendofsuchperiodasthe
appropriateauthoritymayspecifyunless,inthecaseofaproposal,theproposalisnotcarriedout.
(2)Arequirementmaybelimitedtoaparticularchild,orclassofchildren.
(3)Arequirement(otherthanoneimposedundersubparagraph(1)(a)ofthisparagraph),belimited
byappropriateauthoritysoastoapplyonlywhenthenumberofthechildrenfosteredbytheperson
exceedsaspecifiednumber.
(4)Arequirementshallbeimposedbynoticeinwritingaddressedtothepersononwhomitis
imposedandinforminghimof
(a) thereasonforimposingtherequirement;
(b) hisrightunderparagraph6ofthisPartofthisScheduletoappealagainstit;and
(c) thetimewithinwhichhemaydoso.
(5)AStateGovernmentmayatanytimevaryarequirement,imposeanyadditionalrequirementor
removeanyrequirement.
(6)InthisparagraphandtheotherparagraphsofthisPartofthisSchedule
(a) "theappropriateauthority"means
(i) theStateGovernmentinwhoseStatethechildisbeingfostered;or
(ii) inthecaseofaproposaltofosterachild,theStateGovernmentwithinwhichit
isproposedthathewillbefostered;and
(b) "requirement"inrelationtoanyperson,meansarequirementimposedontheperson
underthisparagraph.
Regulationsrequiringnotificationoffostering,etc.
5.(1)TheMinistermaybyregulationsmakeprovisionsasto
(a) thecircumstancesinwhichnotificationisrequiredtobegiveninconnectionwith
childrenwhoare,havebeenorareproposedtobefosteredprivately;and
(b) themannerandforminwhichsuchnotificationistobegiven.
(2)theregulationsmay,inparticular
(a) requireanypersonwhois,orproposestobeinvolved(whetherornotdirectlyin
arrangingforachildtobefosteredprivatelytonotifytheappropriateauthority;
(b) requireanypersonwhois
(i) aparentofachild;or
(ii) apersonwho,thoughnotaparentofachildhasparentalresponsibilityforthe
child,andwhoknowsthatitisproposedthatthechildshouldbefostered
privately,
tonotifytheappropriateauthority;
(c) requireanyparentofachildfosteredprivately,or'personwho,thoughnotaparentofa
childhasparentalresponsibilityforthechild,tonotifytheappropriateauthorityofany
changeinhisaddress;
(d) requireanypersonwhoproposestofosterachildprivatelytonotifytheappropriate
authorityofhisproposal;
(e) requireanypersonwhoisfosteringachildprivately,orproposestodoso,tonotifythe
appropriateauthorityof
(i) anyoffenceofwhichhehasbeenconvicted;
(ii) anydisqualificationimposedonhimundersection122ofthisAct;or
(iii) anyprohibitionimposedonhimundersection123ofthisAct;
(f) requireanypersonwhoisfosteringachildprivatelytonotifytheappropriateauthority
ofanychangeinhisaddress;
(g) requireanypersonwhoisfosteringachildprivatelytonotifytheappropriateauthority
inwritingofanypersonwhobegins,orceases,tobepartofhishousehold;
(h) requireanypersonwhohasbeenfosteringachildprivately,buthasceasedtodoso,to
notifytheappropriateauthority(indicating,wherethechildhasdied,isthereasonfor
thedeath).
Appeals
6.(1)Apersonaggrievedby
(a) arequirementimposedunderparagraph4ofthisPartofthisSchedule;
(b) arefusalofconsentundersection122ofthisAct;
(c) aprohibitionimposedundersection123ofthisAct;
(d) arefusaltocancelaProhibitionimposedundersection123ofthisAct;
(e) arefusaltomakeanexemptionunderparagraph4ofPartIofthisSchedule;
(f) aconditionimposedinanexemptionunderparagraph4ofPartIofthisSchedule;or
(g) avariationofcancellationofanexemption,
mayappealtotheCourt.
(2)Theappealshallbemadewithinfourteendaysfromthedateonwhichthepersonappealingis
notifiedoftherequirement,refusal,prohibition,condition,variationorcancellation.
(3)Wheretheappealisagainst
(a) arequirementimposedunderparagraph4ofthisSchedule;or
(b) aconditionimposedinanexemptionunderparagraph4ofPartIofthisSchedule;or
(c) avariationorcancellationofanexemptionunderparagraph4ofPartIofthisSchedule,
therequirement,condition,variationorcancellationshallnothaveeffectwhiletheappealispending.
(4)WheretheCourtallowsanappealagainstarequirementorprohibitionitmayinsteadof
cancelingtherequirementorprohibition
(a) varytherequirementorallowmoretimeforcompliancewithit;or
(b) ifanabsoluteprohibitionhasbeenimposed,substituteforitaprohibitiononusingthe
premisesaftersuchtimeastheCourtmayspecifyunlesssuchspecifiedrequirementsas
theStateGovernmenthadpowertoimposeunderparagraph4ofthisScheduleare
compliedwith.
(5)ArequirementorprohibitionspecifiedorsubstitutedbyaCourtunderthisparagraphshallbe
deemedforthepurposesofPartXIofthisAct(otherthanthisparagraph)tohavebeenimposedbythe
StateGovernmentunderparagraph4ofthisScheduleorsection123ofthisAct(asthecasemaybe).
(6)WheretheCourtallowsanappealagainstarefusaltomakeanexemption,aconditionimposed
intheexemptionoravariationorcancellationoftheexemption,itmay
(a) makeanexemption;
(b) imposeacondition;or
(c) varytheexemption.
(7)Anexemptionmadeorvariedundersubparagraph(6)ofthisparagraph,oranycondition
imposedunderthatsubparagraph,shallbedeemedforthepurposesofPartIofthisSchedule(butnot
forthepurposesofthisparagraph)tohavebeenmade,variedorimposedunderthatSchedule.
(8)NothinginSubparagraph(1)(e)to(g)ofthisparagraphconfersanyrightofappealon
(a) apersonwhois,orwould,ifexemptedunderPart1ofthisSchedule,beaState
Governmentfosterparent;or
(b) apersonwhois,orwould,ifsoexemptedbe,apersonwithwhomachildisplacedbya
voluntaryorganisation.
ExtensionofPartXItocertainschoolchildrenduringholidays
7.(1)Whereachildundertheageofsixteenyearswhoisapupilataschoolwhichisnotmaintainedby
aStateGovernmentlivesattheschoolduringschoolholidaysforaperiodofmorethantwoweeks,Part
XIofthisActshallapplyinrelationtothechildasif
(a) whilelivingattheschool,hewereachildfosteredprivately;and
(b) paragraphs2(1)(d)and4ofthisPartofthisSchedulewereomitted.
(2)Subparagraph(3)ofthisparagraphappliestoapersonwhoproposestocareforand
accommodateoneormorechildrenataschoolincircumstancesinwhichsomeorallofthemwillbe
treatedaschildrenfosteredprivatelybyvirtueofthisparagraph.
(3)Thepersonreferredtoinsubparagraph(2)ofthisparagraphshall,notlessthantwoweeksbefore
thefirstofthosechildrenistreatedasachildfosteredprivatelybyvirtueofthisparagraphduringthe
holidayinquestion,givewrittennoticeofhisproposaltotheStateGovernmentwhoseareathechildis
ordinarilyresident,statingtheestimatednumberofthechildren.
(4)AStateGovernmentmayexemptapersonfromthedutyofgivingnoticeunderSubparagraph(3)
ofthisparagraph.
(5)Anexemptionmaybegrantedforaspecialperiodorindefinitelyandmayberevokedatanytime
bynoticeinwritinggiventothepersonexempted.
(6)Whereachildwhoistreatedasachildfosteredprivatelybyvirtueofthisparagraphdies,the
personcaringforhimattheschoolshall,notlaterthan48hoursafterthedeath,givewrittennoticeof
thedeath
(a) totheappropriateauthority;and
(b) wherereasonablypracticable,toeachparentofthechildandtoeverypersonwho,
thoughnotaparentofthechild,hasparentalresponsibilityforthechild.
(7)Whereachildwhoistreatedasafosterchildbyvirtueofthisparagraphceasesforanyother
reasontobeafosteredchild,thepersoncaringforhimattheschoolshallgivewrittennoticeofthefact
totheappropriateauthority.
Prohibitionofadvertisementsrelatingtofostering
8.Noadvertisementindicatingthatapersonwillundertake,orwillarrangefor,achildtobefostered
privatelyshallbepublished,unlessitstatesthatperson'snameandaddress.
Avoidanceofinsuranceonlivesofchildrenfosteredprivately
9.Apersonwhofostersachildprivatelyandforrewardshallbedeemedforthepurposesofthe
InsuranceAct1991tohavenointerestinthelifeofthechild.

PARTIV
[Section120.]
CHILD'SRIGHTACT2003
DeclarationregardingSuitabilitytoFosterChildrenPrivately
(Tobecompletedbyallmembersofthehouseholdover16years)
FullName..
Dateofbirth..
Address..
..

Haveyouever YES NO
Pleasetick
1. Beenconvictedofanyoffenceinvolvingachild. () ()
2. HadachildremovedfromyourcarebytheorderofanycourtorState
Government.. () ()
3. HadregistrationunderpartXIVoftheChildrenActrefusedorcancelled(children
minding)... () ()
4. HadyourrightanddutieswithrespecttoachildvestedinaStateGovernment
.... () ()
5. Hadaprohibitionimposedonyouatanytime () ()
6. Disqualifiedfromactingasafosterparent. () ()

Ifyouhaveanswered"yes"toanyoftheabovequestionspleasesupplythedatesandcircumstances.
..
Date Signed

Section124(3)(a)oftheChildrenAct,2003,providesthatapersonwhomakesanystatementinthis
noticeorinformationwhichheknowstobefalseormisleadingcommitsanoffenceandliableon
summaryconvictiontofinenotexceedingfivethousandnaira.
PARTV
[Section120(1)AND(2).]
AdditionalProvisionsrelatingtoPrivateArrangementsforFostering
GeneralWelfareofChildren
1.(1)Incarryingoutfunctionsundersection123ofthisAct,astothewelfareofchildrenwhoare
fosteredprivatelywithinitsStates,aStateGovernment(includinganofficeroftheStateGovernment
makingavisitunderparagraph2ofthisPartofthisSchedule)shallsatisfyitselfonsuchofthematters
specifiedinsubparagraph(2)ofthisparagraphasarerelevantintheparticularcircumstances.
(2)Themattersreferredtoinsubparagraph(1)ofthisparagraphare
(a) thepurposeandintendeddurationofthefosteringarrangement;
(b) thechild'sphysical,intellectual,emotional,socialandbehaviouraldevelopment;
(c) whetherthechild'snoticearisingfromhisreligiouspersuasion,racialoriginandcultural
andlinguisticbackgroundarebeingmet;
(d) thefinancialarrangementsforthecareandmaintenanceofthechild;
(e) thesuitabilityoftheaccommodation;
(f) thearrangementsforthechild'smedicalanddentalcareandtreatment;
(g) thearrangementsforthechild'seducationand,inparticular,thatthelocaleducation
authorityhasbeeninformedofthefosteringarrangement;
(h) thestandardofcarewhichthechildisbeinggiven;
(i) thesuitabilityofthefosterparenttolookafterthechildandsuitabilityofthefoster
parent'shousehold;
(j) whetherthefosterparentisbeinggivenanynecessaryadvice;
(k) whetherthecontactbetweenthechildandhisparents,oranypersonwithwhom
contacthasbeenarranged,issatisfactory;
(l) whetherthechild'sparents,oranyotherpersonareexercisingparentalresponsibility
forthechild;and
(m) theascertainablewishesandfeelingsofthechildregardingthefosteringarrangements.
Visitstochildren
2.(1)AStateGovernmentshallmakearrangementsforeachchildwhoisfosteredprivatelywithinthe
StatetobevisitedbyanofficeroftheStateGovernmentfromtimetotimeastheStateGovernment
considersnecessaryinordertosafeguardandpromotethewelfareofthechildandwhenreasonably
requestedbythechildorfosterparentandinparticular
(a) inthefirstyearofthefosteringarrangement,withinoneweekfromitsbeginningand
thenatintervalsofnotmorethansixweeks;
(b) inanysecondorsubsequentyear,atintervalsofnotmorethanthreemonths.
(2)Forthepurposeofmakingvisitsunderthisparagraph,theofficershall,ifheconsidersit
appropriate,arrangetoseethechildalone.
(3)TheofficershallmakeawrittenreporttotheStateGovernmentaftereachvisit.
Notificationsbyprospectiveandactualfosterparents
3.(1)Anypersonwhoproposestofosterprivately,achildforwhomheisnotalreadycaringand
providingaccommodation,shallnotifytheappropriateauthoritynotlessthansixweeks,normorethan
thirteenweeksbeforehereceivesthechild,unlesshereceiveshiminanemergency.
(2)Apersonwhoisfosteringachildprivately
(a) whomhereceivedinanemergency;or
(b) forwhomhewasalreadycaringandprovidingaccommodationwhenhebecomea
fosterchild,
shallnotifytheappropriateauthoritynotmorethan48hoursafterthefosteringarrangementsbegan.
(3)Anoticeundersubparagraph(1)or(2)ofthisparagraphshallspecify
(a) thename,sex,dateandplaceofbirthreligiouspersuasion,racialoriginandculturaland
linguisticbackgroundofthechild;
(b) thenameandaddressofthepersongivingthenoticeandanypreviousaddresswithin
thelastfiveyears;
(c) thepurposeandintendeddurationofthefosteringarrangement;
(d) thenameandaddressofanyparentofthechildandofanyotherpersonwhohas
parentalresponsibilityforthechildand(ifdifferent)ofanypersonfromwhomthechild
wasoristobereceived;
(e) thenameandaddressofanyperson,otherthanapersonspecifiedinsubparagraph(3)
(d)ofthisparagraph,whoisinvolveddirectlyorindirectlyinmakingthefostering
arrangement;and
(f) theindenteddateofthebeginningofthefosteringarrangementor,asthecasemaybe,
thedateonwhichthearrangementactuallybegan.
(4)Apersongivingnotice"undersubparagraph(1)or(2)ofthisparagraphshallincludeinthe
noticeparticularsof
(a) anyoffenceofwhichhehasbeenconvicted;
(b) anydisqualificationofprohibitionimposedonhimunder(asthecasemaybe)section
122or123ofthisActorunderanypreviousenactmentofeitherofthosesections;and
(c) anysuchconviction,disqualificationorprohibitionimposedonanyotherpersonliving
inoremployedatthesamehousehold.
(5)Apersonwhoisfosteringachildprivatelyshallnotifytheappropriateauthorityof
(a) anychangeinhisaddress;
(b) anypersonwhobeginsorceases,tobepartofhishousehold;and
(c) anyfurtherconvictiondisqualificationorprohibitionasmentionedinsubparagraphs(3)
(a)(b)and(c)ofthisparagraph.
(6)Anoticeundersubparagraph(5)ofthisparagraphshallbegiven
(a) inadvanceifpracticable;and
(b) inanyothercase,notmorethan48hoursafterthechangeofcircumstances,
andifthenewaddressisinanotherStatetheappropriateauthoritytowhomthenoticeisgivenshall
informtheStateGovernmentoftheotherStateofthenewaddressandoftheparticularsgiventoit
undersubparagraphs3(a)and(d)ofthisparagraph.
Notificationsbyformerfosterparents
4.(1)Subjecttosubparagraphs(2)and(3)ofthisparagraph,anypersonwhohasbeenfosteringachild
privately,buthasceasedtodoso,shallnotifytheappropriateauthoritywithin48hoursandshall
includeinthenoticethenameandaddressofthepersonintowhosecarethechildwasreceived.
(2)Wherethereasonforendingthefosteringarrangementinthedeathofthechild,thefosterparent
shallnotifyforthwiththeStateGovernmentandalsothepersonfromwhomthefosterparentreceived
thechild.
(3)Subparagraph(1)ofthisparagraphshallnotapplywherethefosterparentintendstoresumethe
fosteringarrangementafteranintervalofnotmorethan27daysbutif
(a) hesubsequentlyabandonshisintentions;or
(b) theintervalexpireswithouthishavinggiveneffecttohisintention,
heshallthereupongivenoticetotheStateGovernmentwithin48hoursofabandoninghisintentionor
asthecasemaybe,theexpiryoftheinterval.
OtherNotifications
5.(1)Anypersonwhois,orproposestobe,involved(whetherornotdirectly)inarrangingforachildto
befosteredprivatelyshallnotifytheappropriateauthoritynotlessthansixnormorethanthirteen
weeksbeforethefosteringarrangementbeginsunlessthefosteringarrangementismadeinan
emergencyinwhichcasethenotificationshallbenotmorethan48hoursafterthefostering
arrangementbegins.
(2)Aparentofachild,andanyotherpersonwhohasparentalresponsibilityforthechild,whoknows
thatitisproposedthatthechildshouldbefosteredprivatelyshallnotifytheappropriateauthoritynot
lessthansix,normorethanthirteenweeksbeforethefosteringarrangementbeginsunlessthefostering
arrangementismadeinanemergencyinwhichcasenotificationshallbenotmorethan48hours
thereafter.
(3)Anynoticeundersubparagraph(1)or(2)ofthisparagraphshallspecify
(a) theInformationmentionedinsubparagraphs(3)(a)(b)and(c)ofparagraph3ofthis
schedule;
(b) thearrangementsforthecareofanybrotherorsisterofthechildwhoisnotincludedin
thefosteringarrangement;
(c) thenameandaddressofanyotherpersoninvolved(whetherornotdirectly)inthe
fosteringarrangement;
(d) wherethenoticeisgivenundersubparagraph(1)ofthisparagraph,therelationshipto
thechildofthepersongivingthenoticeandalsotheinformationspecifiedin
subparagraph(3)(d)ofparagraph3ofthisSchedule.
(4)Anyparentofachildfosteredprivatelyandanyotherpersonwhohaschild,hasparental
responsibilityforthechildshallnotifytheappropriateauthorityof
(a) theendingofthefosteringarrangement;and
(b) anychangeinhisownaddress.
6.Anynoticerequiredunderparagraph3to5shallbegiveninwritingandmaybesentbypost.

PARTVI
[Sections122and197(1)(2).]
DisqualificationfromCaringForChildren
DisqualificationfromfosteringachildprivatelyorRegistration
underPartXIofthisAct

1.Forthepurposeofsection122ofthisAct(persondisqualifiedfrombeingprivatefosterparents)and
ofparagraph2oftheSixthScheduletothisAct(disqualificationfromregistration)apersonis
disqualifiedfromfosteringachildprivatelyorregisteringundersection163ofthisAct(registrationfor
childmindinganddaycare)if
(a) heistheparentofachildwhoatanytimehasbeenmadethesubjectofanorderunder
section57(1)(a)ofthisAct(careorder);
(b) oneofthefollowingordershasbeenmadeatanytimewithrespecttoachildsoasto
removethechildfromhiscareorpreventthechildlivingwithhim
(i) anorderundersection52(1)(a)ofthisAct;
(ii) asupervisionorderwhichimposesaresidencerequirementunderthisActthat
achildoffenderliveinStateGovernmentaccommodation;.
(iii) anapprovedschoolorderorafitpersonorderunderthisAct;
(c) anorderhasbeenmadeatanytime,forthepurposesofremovingaprotectedchild
whowasbeingkept,orwasabouttobereceivedbyhimunderPartIVofthisAct;
(d) anorderremovingachildfromhiscarehasbeenmadeatanytimeunderPartVofthis
Act;
(e) hehasbeenconvictedofanysexualoffence,anyoffenceinvolvingperjuryorviolenceor
suchotheroffencesasmaybeprescribedbytheMinister;
(f) heisapersonwhocarriedon,orwasotherwiseconcernedwiththemanagementofor
hadanyfinancialinterestinavoluntaryhomewhichwasremovedfromtheregister;
(g) therehasbeenarefusaltoregisteravoluntaryhomeinrelationtoanapplicationmade
byhimunderthisAct;
(h) therehasbeenarefusaltoregisteraregisteredchildren'shomeinrelationtoan
applicationmadebyhimunderparagraph1oftheTenthScheduletothisAct
(applicationforregistration);
(i) heisapersonwhocarriedonorwasotherwiseconcernedwiththemanagementofor
hadanyfinancialinterestinaregisteredchildren'shomeandthathomewasremoved
fromtheregisterunderparagraph4oftheTenthScheduletothisAct(cancellationof
registration);
(j) heispersoninrespectofwhomaprohibitionhasbeenimposedundersection123of
thisActpowertoprohibitprivatefostering);
(k) hehasatanytimebeenrefusedregistrationinrespectofdaycareorchildminding.
DisqualificationinrelationtoVoluntaryHomes
2.(1)Apersonwhoisdisqualifiedundersection122ofthisActfromfosteringachildprivatelyshallnot
carryon,orbeotherwiseconcernedinthemanagementoforhaveanyfinancialinterestinavoluntary
homeunlesshehas
(a) disclosedtotheMinisterthefactthatheissodisqualified;and
(b) obtainedhiswrittenconsent.
(2)Nopersonshallemployapersonwhoisdisqualifiedinavoluntaryhomeunlesshehas
(a) disclosedtotheMinisterthefactthatpersonissodisqualified;and
(b) obtainedthewrittenconsentoftheMinister.
(3)WheretheMinisterrefusestogivehisconsentunderthisparagraphheshallinformtheperson
carryingonorintendingtocarryonthevoluntaryhomebyawrittennoticewhichstates
(a) thereasonfortherefusal;
(b) therighttoappealagainsttherefusaltotheCourtattheHighCourtlevelunder
paragraph5ofSchedule10tothisAct;,
(c) thetimewithinwhichhemaydoso.
(4)AnypersonwhocontravenesSubparagraph(1)or(2)ofthisparagraphcommitsanoffenceandis
liableonsummaryconvictiontoimprisonmentforatermnotexceedingthreemonthsortoafinenot
exceedingtwothousandfivehundrednairaortobothsuchimprisonmentandfine.
_________________________
FIFTHSCHEDULE
[Section130(2)and(142)(2).]
FormofAdoptedChildren'sRegister

Registry..Town..L.G.A.State
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8.
No.ofentry Dateofentry Nameof
FosteredChild
(enternameas
statedin
Fostering
Order)
Sexof
FosteredChild
(entersexas
statedin
adoption
Order)
Nameand
surname
addressand
occupationof
fosterparents
(entername
addressand
occupationas
statedin
adoption
Order)
Dateofbirth
ofchild(enter
dateofbirth
(ifanydirected
bythe
adoption
Ordertobe
enteredbut
otherentry
Dateof
fostering
Orderand
descriptionof
Courtbywhich
made(entryto
beas
appearingon
theFostering
order)
Signatureof
Officer
deputedby
ChiefRegistrar
to
attestentry

_________________________

SIXTHSCHEDULE
[Sections166(1)(2),169(1)(c),and(d),170(9)(10)and(11).]
ChildMindingandDayCareforYoungChildren
ApplicationsforRegistration
1.(1)Anapplicationforregistrationundersection163ofthisActshallbeofnoeffectunlessitcontains
(a) astatement,withrespecttotheapplicantwhichcomplieswiththerequirements
containedinAnnexAtothisScheduleandofregulationsmadeforthepurposesofthis
paragraphbytheMinister;and
(b) astatementwithrespecttoanypersonassistingorlikelytobeassistinginlookingafter
childrenonthepremisesinquestion,orlivingorlikelytobelivingthere,whichcomplies
withtherequirementscontainedinAnnexBtothisScheduleandofsuchregulations.
(2)Whereapersonprovides,daycareforchildrenundertheageofsixyearsondifferentpremises
situatedwithinthesameState,heshallmakeaseparateapplicationwithrespecttoeachofthose
premises.
(3)Anapplicationundersection163ofthisActshallbeaccompaniedbysuchfeeasmaybeprescribed.
(4)Onreceiptofanapplicationforregistrationundersection163ofthisActfromanypersonwhois
acting,orproposestoact,inanywaywhichrequireshimtoberegisteredunderthatsection,theState
Governmentshallregisterhimiftheapplicationisproperlymadeanditisnototherwiseentitledto
refusetodoso.
DisqualificationfromRegistration
2.(1)Apersonmaynotberegisteredundersection163ofthisActifheisdisqualifiedbyregulations
madebytheMinisterforhepurposesofthisparagraph.
(2)Theregulationsmay,inparticularprovideforapersontobedisqualifiedwhere
(a) anorderofprescribedkindhasbeenmadeatanytimewithrespecttohim;
(b) anorderofaprescribedkindhasbeenmadeatanytimewithrespecttoanychildwho
hasbeeninhiscare;
(c) arequirementofaprescribedkindhasbeenimposedatanytimewithrespecttosucha
child;underorbyvirtueofanyenactment;
(d) hehasatanytimebeenrefusedregistrationunderPartXIVofthisActoranyother
prescribedenactmentorhadanysuchregistrationcanceled;
(e) hehasbeenconvictedofanyoffenceofaprescribedkind;orhasbeenplacedon
probationordischargedabsolutelyorconditionallyforanysuchoffence;
(f) hehasatanytimebeendisqualifiedfromfosteringachildprivately;
(g) aprohibitionhasbeenimposedonhimatanytimeunderanyprescribedenactment;
(h) hisrightsandpowerswithrespecttoachildhaveatanytimebeenvestedina
prescribedauthorityunderaprescribedenactment.
(3)Apersonwholives
(a) inthesamepremisesasapersonwhoishimselfdisqualifiedbyregulationsmadeunder
thisparagraph;or
(b) inapremiseswhichanysuchpersonisemployed;
shallbedisqualifiedunlesshehasdisclosedthefacttotheStateGovernmentandobtaineditswritten
consent.
(4)Apersonwhoisdisqualifiedshallnotprovidedaycare,orbeconcernedinthemanagementof,or
haveanyfinancialinterestin,anyprovisionofdaycareunlesshehas
(a) disclosedthefacttotheStateGovernment;and
(b) obtaineditswrittenconsent.
(5)Nopersonshallemploy,inconnectionwiththeprovisionofdaycare,apersonwhoisdisqualified
unlesshehas
(a) disclosedtotheStateGovernmentthefactthatthepersonsissodisqualified;and
(b) obtaineditswrittenconsent.
(6)Inthisparagraph,"enactment"meansanyenactmenthavingeffect,atanytime,inanypartof
Nigeria.
Exemptionofcertainschools
3.(1)Sections168ofthisActdoesnotapplyinrelationtoanychildlookedafterinany
(a) schoolmaintainedorassistedbyanyGovernmentintheFederation;
(b) schoolunderthemanagementofaneducationauthority;
(c) independentschool.
(2)Theexemptionprovidedbysubparagraph(1)ofthisparagraphonlyapplieswherethechild
concernedisbeinglookedafterinaccordancewithprovisionfordaycaremadeby
(a) thepersoncarryingontheestablishmentinquestionaspartoftheestablishment's
activities;or
(b) apersonemployedtoworkatthatestablishmentandauthorisedtomakethatprovision
aspartoftheestablishment'sactivities.
Exemptionforotherestablishments
4.(1)Section168(1)(b)ofthisActdoesnotapplyinrelationtoanychildlookedafterin
(a) aregisteredchildren'shome;or
(b) avoluntaryhome;or
(c) acommunityhome;or
(d) aresidentialcarehome,nursinghomeormentalnursinghome;
(e) aGovernmenthospital;
(f) suchotherhomeasmaybeprescribedforexemptionunderthisparagraph.
(2)Theexemptionprovidedbysubparagraph(1)ofthisparagraphonlyapplieswherethechild
concernedisbeingconcernedisbeinglookedafterinaccordancewithprovisionsfordaycaremadeby
(a) thedepartment,authorityorotherpersoncarryingontheestablishmentinquestionas
partoftheestablishment'sactivities;or
(b) apersonemployedtoworkatthatestablishmentandauthorisedtomakethatprovision
aspartoftheestablishment'sactivities.
Exemptionforoccasionalfacilities
5.(1)Wheredaycareforchildrenundertheageofsixyearsisprovidedinparticularpremisesonless
thansixdaysinanyyear,thatprovisionshallbedisregardedforthepurposesofSection168ofthisActif
thepersonmakingithasnotifiedtheStategovernmentinwritingbeforethefirstoccasiononwhichthe
premisesconcernedaresousedinthat
(2)Insubparagraph(1)ofthisparagraph,"year"meanstheyearbeginningwiththedayonwhichthe
daycareinquestionis(afterthecommencementofthisparagraph)firstprovidedinthepremises
concernedandanysubsequentyear.
Certificateofregistration
6.(1)WhereaStateGovernmentregistersapersonundersection168ofthisActitshallissuehimwitha
certificateofregistration.
(2)Thecertificateshallcertify
(a) theregisteredperson'snameandaddress;
(b) inacasefallingwithinsection163(1)(b)ofthisAct,theaddressorsituationofthe
premisesconcerned;and
(c) anyrequirementimposedundersection164or165ofthisAct.
(3)Where,duetoachangeofcircumstances,anypartofthecertificaterequirestobeamended,the
StateGovernmentshallissueanamendedcertificate.
(4)WheretheStateGovernmentissatisfiedthatthecertificatehasbeenlostordestroyed,itshall
issueacopy,onpaymentbytheregisteredpersonofsuchfeeasmaybeprescribed.
Feesforannualinspectionofpremises
7.(1)Where
(a) apersonisregisteredundersection163ofthisAct;and
(b) theStateGovernmentconcernedmakesanannualinspectionofthepremisesin
questionundersection168ofthisAct,
Itshallserveonthatpersonanoticeinforminghimthattheinspectionistobecarriedoutandrequiring
himtopaytoitsuchfeeasmaybeprescribed.
(2)Itshallbeaconditionofthecontinuedregistrationofthatpersonundersection168ofthisAct
thatthefeeissopaidbeforetheexpiryoftheperiodoftwentyeightdaysbeginningwiththedateon
whichtheinspectioniscarriedout.
ANNEXA
[Paragraph1(1)(a).]
InformationtobeprovidedabouttheApplicant
1.Thefullnameoftheapplicant,including(ifdifferent)nameatbirthandanyotherformernames,or
wheredaycareistobeprovidedbyapartnership,committeeorbodycorporateorunincorporate,the
fullnamesofthepartners,membersofthecommittee,BoardofDirectors,ortheBoard,identifyingthe
Chairman,SecretaryandTreasurerandthepersonincharge.
2.Theaddressatwhichthechildrenaretobelookedafterandtheaddressoftheapplicantandofthe
personincharge,ifdifferent.
3.Whetherthepremisesatwhichthechildrenaretobelookedafterisadomesticpremises.
4.Inthecaseofdaycare,adescriptionofthefacilitiesavailabletotheapplicantfordaycare,including
thenumberofrooms,theirfunctions,thenumbersoflavatoriesandwashbasins,anyseparatefacilities
foradultworkersandaccesstothepremisesforcars.
5.Whethertheapplicantwishestoregisteraschildminder,orasaproviderofdaycare,andifthelatter
whetherhewillprovidefulldaycareorsessionaldaycare.
6.Inthecaseofdaycaretheproposedhoursforwhichtheapplicantwishestoprovidedaycare.
7.Relevantexperienceoftheapplicantandanypersonincharge,includinganypreviousworkwith
childrenorwithelderlyordisabledpersons,whetherpaidornot.
8.Thenumberandagesofanychildrenoftheapplicantorthepersoninchargeoranychildrenfor
whomeitheristoberesponsible.
9.Anyrelevantqualifications(withdates)oftheapplicantorthepersoninchargegivingdetailsofthe
organisationrunningthecourse,thesubjectsstudied,thelengthofthecourseandthenameofthe
qualifications.
10.Thenamesoftworefereesfortheapplicantorthepersoninchargewhomaybecontacted.
11.Thenameandaddresseesofthemedicalpractitioneroftheapplicantorofthepersoninchargeand
whetherhemaybeapproachedfordetailsconcerningthestateofhealthoftheapplicantorpersonin
charge,togetherwithdetailsofanythingforwhichheiscurrentlybeingtreatedbyhismedical
practitionerorbyahospitalanddetailsofanyhospitaladmissionsduringthelast2yearsandofany
seriousillnessinthelastfiveyears.
12.Detailsofanycriminalsconvictionsoftheapplicantorthepersonincharge,including:
(a) thedateofoffence;
(b) thenatureofoffence;
(c) theplacewhereitoccurred;
(d) thenameofthecourtwhichgavetheconviction;
(e) thepenaltyimposed.
ANNEXB
[Paragraph1(1)(b).]
InformationtobeProvidedaboutanyPersonAssistingorlikelytoAssist,
orLivingorLikelytoliveinthePremises
1.Inthecaseofchildminders,namesanddateofbirthofanyoneliving(orlikelytobeliving)inthe
premisesinwhichtheyintendtolookafterchildren,includingnumbersofthefamilyandlodge'sandthe
nameandaddressofanypersonassisting(orlikelytobeassisting)inlookingafterthechildren.
2.Inthecaseofdaycareapplicants,namesanddatesofbirthofanyoneliving(orlikelytobeliving)on
thepremisestobeusedforadaycare,detailsonhowmanystaffwillbeemployedinlookingafterthe
childrenandinwhatcapacity,detailsofanypersonincharge,anyotherpersonassisting(orlikelytobe
assisting)inlookingafterchildrenonthepremisesinquestion,withtheirnamesandaddresses.
3.DetailsofanycriminalconvictionofanyofthepersonmentionedInsubparagraphsIand2ofthis
Annex,including
(a) thedateofoffence;
(b) thenatureofoffence;
(c) theplacewhereitoccurred;
(d) thenameofthecourtwhichgavetheconviction;
(e) thepenaltyimposed.
_________________________

SEVENTHSCHEDULE
[Section174(4),(5),and178(9).]
StateGovernmentSupportforChildrenandFamilies
PART1
ProvisionofServicesforFamilies
Identificationofchildreninneedandprovisionofinformation.
1.(1)EveryStateGovernmentshalltakereasonablestepstoidentifytheextenttowhichthereare
childreninneedwithintheirarea.
(2)EveryStateGovernmentshall
(a) publishinformation
(i) aboutservicesprovidedbythemundersections175,176,178and183ofthis
Act;and
(ii) whereitconsidersitappropriate,abouttheprovisionbyothers(including,in
particularvoluntaryorganisations)orserviceswhichtheStateGovernmenthas
powertoprovideunderthosesections;and
(b) takesuchstepsasarereasonablypracticabletoensurethatthosewhomightbenefit
fromtheservicesreceivedtheinformationrelevanttothem.
Maintenanceofaregisterofdisabledchildren
2.(1)EveryStateGovernmentshallopenandmaintainaregisterofdisabledchildrenwithintheState.
(2)Theregistermaybekeptbymeansofacomputer.
AssessmentofChildren'sneeds
3.WhereitappearstoaStateGovernmentthatachildwithintheStateGovernmentisinneed,the
StateGovernmentmayassesshisneedsforthepurposesofthisActatthesametimeasanyassessment
ofhisneedsismadeunderanyotherenactment.
Preventionofneglectandabuse
4.(1)EveryStateGovernmentshalltakereasonablesteps,throughtheprovisionofservicesunderPart
XVofthisAct,topreventchildrenwithintheStatefromsufferingilltreatmentorneglect.
(2)WhereaStateGovernmentbelievesthatachildwhoisatanytimewithintheState:
(a) islikelytosufferharm;but
(b) livesorproposestoliveinanotherState.
itshallinformtheStateGovernmentofthatotherState.
(3)WheninformingthatotherStateGovernmentitshallspecify
(a) theharmthatitbelievesthatchildislikelytosuffer;and
(b) ifitcan,wherethechildlivesorproposestolive.
Provisionofaccommodationinordertoprotectchild
5.(1)Where
(a) itappearstoaStateGovernmentthatachildwhoislivingonparticularpremisesis
suffering,orislikelytosuffer,illtreatmentatthehandsofanotherpersonwhoisliving
onthepremises;and
(b) thatotherpersonproposestomovefromthepremises,
thatStateGovernmentmayassistthatotherpersontoobtainalternativeaccommodation.
(2)Assistancegivenunderthisparagraphmaybeincash.
(3)Subsection(1)to(2)ofsection175ofthisActshallapplyinrelationtoassistancegivenunderthis
paragraphastheyapplyinrelationtoassistancegivenunderthatsection.
Provisionfordisabledchildren
6.EveryStateGovernmentshallprovideservicesdesigned,
(a) tominimizetheeffectondisabledchildrenwithintheStateoftheirdisabilities;and
(b) togivedisabledchildrentheopportunitytoleadliveswhichareasnormalaspossible.
Provisiontoreduceneedforcareproceedings,etc.
7.EveryStateGovernmentshalltakereasonablestepsdesigned
(a) toreducetheneedtobring
(i) proceedingsforcareorsupervisionorderswithrespecttochildrenwithinthe
State,
(ii) criminalproceedingsagainstthechildren,
(iii) anyfamilyorotherproceedingswithrespecttothechildrenwhichmightleadto
thembeingplacedinthecareoftheStateGovernment,or;
(iv) proceedingsintheCourtwithrespecttochildren:
(b) toencouragechildrenwithinthestatenottocommitcriminaloffences:and
(c) toavoidtheneedforchildrenwithintheStatetobeplacedinsecureaccommodation.
Provisionforchildrenlivingwiththeirfamilies
8.EveryStateGovernmentshallmakesuchprovisionasitconsidersappropriateforthefollowing
servicestobeavailablewithrespecttochildreninneedwithintheStatewhiletheyarelivingwiththeir
families
(a) advice,guidanceandcounselling;
(b) occupational,social,culturalorrecreationalactivities;
(c) homehelp(whichmayincludelaundryfacilities);
(d) facilitiesfor,orassistancewith,travelingtoandfromhomeforthepurposeoftaking
advantageofanyotherserviceprovidedunderthisActorofanysimilarservice;
(e) assistancetoenablethechildconcernedandhisfamilytohaveaholiday.
FamilyCentres
9.(1)EveryStateGovernmentshallprovidesuchfamilycentresastheyconsiderappropriateinrelation
tochildrenwithintheState.
(2)FamilycentreisacentreatwhichanyofthepersonsmentionedinSubparagraph(3)ofthis
paragraphmay
(a) attendforoccupational,social,culturalorrecreationalactivities;
(b) attendforadvice,guidanceorcounseling;or
(c) beprovidedwithaccommodationswhileheisreceivingadvice,guidanceorcounseling.
(3)ThepersonsreferredtoinSubparagraph(2)oftheparagraphare
(a) achild;
(b) theparentsofthechild;
(c) anypersonwho,thoughnotaparentofthechild,hasparentalresponsibilityforchild;
and
(d) anyotherpersonwhoislookingafterthechild.
Maintenanceofthefamilyhome
10.EveryStateGovernmentshalltakesuchstepsasarereasonablypracticable,whereanychildwithin
theStatewhoisinneedandwhomitisnotlookingafterislivingapartfromhisfamily
(a) toenablehimtolivewithhisfamily;or
(b) topromotecontactbetweenhimandhisfamily,if,initsopinion,itisnecessarytodoso
inordertosafeguardorpromotehiswelfare.
Dutytoconsiderreligiouspersuasion,etc.,towhichchildreninneedbelong
11.EveryStateGovernmentshall,inmakinganyarrangements
(a) fortheprovisionsofdaycarewithintheState;or
(b) designedtoencouragepersonstoactasStateGovernmentfosterparents.
haveregardtothedifferentreligiouspersuasion,racialorigin,ethnicandlinguisticbackgroundof
childrenwithinthestatewhoareinneed.
PARTII
ChildrenlookedafterbyStateGovernments
RegulationsastoplacingofchildrenwithStateGovernmentfosterparents
12.Regulationsundersection178ofthisActmay,inparticular,makeprovisions
(a) withregardtothewelfareofchildrenplacedwithStateGovernmentfosterparents;
(b) astothearrangementstobemadebyStateGovernmentsinconnectionwiththehealth
andeducationofthechildren;
(c) astotherecordstobekeptbyStateGovernments;
(d) forsecuringthatachildisnotplacedwithaStateGovernmentfosterparentunlessthat
personisforthetimebeingapprovedasaStateGovernmentfosterparentbytheState
Governmentasmaybeprescribed;
(e) forsecuringthat,wherepossible,theStateGovernmentfosterparentwithwhoma
childistobeplacedis
(i) ofthesamereligiouspersuasionasthechild;or
(ii) givesanundertakingthatthechildwillbebroughtupinthatreligious
persuasion;
(f) forsecuringthatchildrenplacedwithStateGovernmentfosterparentsandthe
premisesinwhichtheyareaccommodated,willbesupervisedandinspectedbythe
StateGovernmentandthatthechildrenwillberemovedfromthosepremisesiftheir
welfareappearstorequireit;
(g) astothecircumstancesinwhichStateGovernmentsmaymakearrangementsforduties
imposedonthembytheregulationstobedischarged,ontheirbehalf.
Regulationsastoarrangementsundersection178
13.Regulationsundersection178(2)ofthisActmay,inparticular,makeprovisionsasto
(a) thepersonstobenotifiedofanyproposedarrangements;
(b) theopportunitiessuchpersonsaretohavetomakerepresentationsinrelationtothe
arrangementsproposed;
(c) thepersonstobenotifiedofanyproposedchangesinthearrangements;
(d) therecordstobekeptbyStateGovernment;
(e) thesupervisionbyStateGovernmentsofthearrangementsmade.
Regulationsastoconditionsunderwhichchildincareisallowed
tolivewithparent,etc.
14.Regulationsundersection178ofthisActmay,inparticular,imposerequirementsonaState
Governmentasto
(a) themakingofanydecisionbyaStateGovernmenttoallowachildtolivewithany
personfallingwithinsection182(4)ofthisAct(includingrequirementsastothosewho
mustbeconsultedbeforethedecisionismade,andthosewhomustbenotifiedwhenit
hasbeenmade);
(b) thesupervisionormedicalexaminationofthechildconcerned;
(c) theremovalofthechild,insuchcircumstancesasmaybeprescribed,fromthecareof
thepersonwithwhomhehasbeenallowedtolive.
Promotionandmaintenanceofcontactbetweenchildandfamily
15.(1)WhereachildisbeinglookedafterbyaStateGovernment,theStateGovernmentshall,unlessit
isnotreasonablypracticableorconsistentwithhiswelfare,endeavourtopromotecontactbetweenthe
childand
(a) hisparents;
(b) anypersonwho,thoughnotaparentofachild,hasparentalresponsibilityforthechild;
and
(c) anyrelative,friendorotherpersonconnectedwiththechild.
(2)WhereachildisbeinglookedafterbyaStateGovernment
(a) theStateGovernmentshalltakesuchstepsasarereasonablypracticabletosecurethat
(i) theparentsofthechild;and
(ii) anypersonwho,thoughnotaparentofthechild,hasparentalresponsibilityfor
thechild,
arekeptinformedofwhereheisbeingaccommodated;and
(b) everysuchpersonshallsecurethattheStateGovernmentiskeptinformedofhisorher
address.
(3)WhereaStateGovernment("thereceivingauthority")takesovertheprovisionof
accommodationforachildfromanotherStateGovernment("thetransferringauthority")undersection
174(2)ofthisAct
(a) thereceivingauthorityshall(wherereasonablypracticable)inform
(i) theparentsofthechild;and
(ii) anypersonwho,thoughnotaparentofthechildbutwhohasparental
responsibilityforthechild;
(b) Subparagraph(2)(a)ofthisparagraphshallapplytothetransferringauthority,aswell
asthereceivingauthority,untilatleastonesuchpersonhasbeeninformedofthe
change;and
(ii) anypersonwho,thoughnotaparentofachild,hasparentalresponsibilityfor
thechild,
Arekeptinformedofwhereheisbeingaccommodated;and
(c) everysuchpersonshallsecurethattheStateGovernmentiskeptinformedofhisorher
address.
(3)WhereaStateGovernment(thereceivingauthority)takesovertheprovisionof
accommodationforachildfromanotherStateGovernment(thetransferringauthority)undersection
174(2)ofthisAct
(a) Thereceivingauthorityshall(wherereasonablypracticable)inform
(i) theparentsofthechild;and
(ii) anypersonwho,thoughnotaparentbutwhohasparentalresponsibilityforthe
child;
(b) subparagraph(2)(a)ofthisparagraphshallapplytothetransferringauthority,aswell
asthereceivingauthority,untilatleastonesuchpersonhasbeeninformedofthe
change;and
(c) subparagraph(2)(b)ofthisparagraphshallnotrequireanypersontoinformthe
receivingauthorityofhisaddressuntilhehasbeensoinformed.
(4)NothinginthisparagraphrequiresaStateGovernmenttoinformanypersonofthewhereabouts
ofachild
(a) thechildisinthecareoftheStateGovernment;and
(b) theStateGovernmenthasreasonablecausetobelievethatinformingthepersonwould
prejudicethechildswelfare.
(5)Apersonwhofails(withoutreasonableexcuse)tocomplywithsubparagraph(2)(b)ofthis
paragraphcommitsanoffenceandisliableonsummaryconvictiontoafinenotexceedingtwo
thousandfivehundrednairaorimprisonmentforatermnotexceedingthreemonthsortobothsuch
fineandimprisonment.
(6)Itshallbeadefenceinanyproceedingsundersubparagraph(5)ofthisparagraphtoprovethat
thedefendantwasresidingatthesameaddressasanotherpersonwhowasthechildsparentorhad
parentalresponsibilityforthechildandhadreasonablecausetobelievethattheotherpersonhad
informedtheappropriateauthoritythatbothofthemwereresidingatthataddress
Visitstoorbychildren:expenses
16.(1)Thisparagraphapplieswhere
(a) achildisbeinglookedafterbyaStateGovernment:and
(b) theconditionsmentionedinSubparagraph(3)ofthisparagrapharesatisfied.
(2)TheStateGovernmentmay
(a) makepaymentsto
(i) aparentofthechild,
(ii) anypersonwho,thoughnotaparentofthechild,hasparentalresponsibilityfor
thechild,or
(iii) anyrelative,friendorotherpersonconnectedwiththechild,inrespectof
traveling,subsistenceorotherexpensesincurredbythatpersoninvisitingthe
child;or
(b) makepaymentstothechild,ortoanypersononhisbehalf,
inrespectoftraveling,subsistenceorotherexpensesincurredbyoronbehalfofthechildinhisvisiting
(i) aparentofthechild;
(ii) anypersonwho,thoughnotaparentofachildhasparentalresponsibilityfor
thechild;or
(iii) anyrelative,friendorotherpersonconnectedwiththechild.
(3)Theconditionsreferredtoinsubparagraph(1)(b)ofthisparagrapharethat
(a) itappearstotheStateGovernmentthatthevisitinquestioncouldnototherwisebe
madewithoutunduefinancialhardship;and
(b) thecircumstanceswarrantthemakingofthepayments.
Appointmentofvisitorforchildwhoisnotbeingvisited
17.(1)WhereitappearstoaStateGovernmentinrelationtoachildthatitislookingafterthat
(a) communicationbetweenthechildand
(i) hisparent;or
(ii) anypersonwho,thoughnotaparentofachild,hasparentalresponsibilityfor
thechild,hasbeeninfrequent;or
(b) thechildhasnotvisitedorbeenvisitedby(orlivedwith)anysuchpersonduringthe
preceedingtwelvemonths,andthatitwouldbeinthechildsbestinterestsforan
independentpersontobeappointedtobehisvisitorforthepurposesofthisparagraph,
itshallappointsuchavisitor.
(2)Apersonappointedasavisitorshall
(a) havethedutyofvisiting,advisingandbefriendingthechild;and.
(b) beentitledtorecoverfromtheStateGovernmentwhoappointedhimanyreasonable
expensesincurredbyhimforthepurposesofhisfunctionsunderthisparagraph.
(3)Aperson'sappointmentasa.visitor.inpursuanceofthisparagraphshallbedeterminedif
(a) hegivesnoticeinwritingtotheStateGovernmentwhoappointedhimthatheresigns
theappointment;or
(b) theStateGovernmentgiveshimnoticeinwritingthatithasterminatedthe
appointment.
(4)Thedeterminationofanappointmentshallnotprejudiceanydutyunderthisparagraphto
makeafurtherappointment.
(5)WhereaStateGovernmentproposestoappointavisitorforachildunderthisparagraph,the
appointmentshallnotbemadeif
(a) thechildobjectstoit;and
(b) theStateGovernmentissatisfiedthatthechildhassufficientunderstandingtomakean
informeddecision.
(6)Whereavisitorhasbeenappointedforachildunderthisparagraph,theStateGovernmentshall
determinetheappointmentif
(a) thechildobjectstoitscontinuing;and
(b) theStateGovernmentissatisfiedthatthechildhassufficientunderstandingtomakean
informeddecision.
(7)TheMinistermaymakeregulationsastothecircumstancesinwhichapersonappointedasa
visitorunderthisparagraphistoberegardedasindependentoftheStateGovernmentappointinghim.

Powertoguaranteeapprenticeshipdeeds,etc.
18.(1)WhileachildisbeinglookedafterbyaStateGovernment,orisapersonqualifyingforadviceand
assistance,theStateGovernmentmayundertakeanyobligationbywayofguaranteeunderadeedof
apprenticeshipwhichheentersinto.
(2)WhereaStateGovernmenthasundertakenanobligationunderadeeditmayatanytime
(whetherornotitisstilllookingafterthechildconcerned)undertakethelikeobligationunderany
supplementaldeed.
Arrangementstoassistchildrentoliveabroad
19.(1)TheStateGovernmentmayonlyarrangefor,orassistinarrangingfor,anychildintheircareto
liveoutsidetheStatewiththeapprovaloftheCourt.
(2)AStateGovernmentmay,withtheapprovalofeverypersonwhohasparentalresponsibilityfor
thechildarrangefor,orassistinarrangingforanyotherchildlookedafterbyittoliveoutsidetheState.
(3)TheCourtshallnotgiveitsapprovalundersubparagraph(1)ofthisparagraphunlessitissatisfied
that
(a) livingoutsidetheStatewouldbeinthechild'sbestinterests;
(b) suitablearrangementshavebeenorwillbemadeforhisreceptionandwelfareinthe
stateinwhichhewilllive;
(c) thechildhasconsentedtolivinginthatState;and
(d) everypersonwhohasparentalresponsibilityforthechildhasconsentedtohislivingin
thatState.
(4)WheretheCourtissatisfiedthatthechilddoesnothavesufficientunderstandingtogiveor
withholdhisconsent,itmaydisregardsubparagraph(3)(c)ofthisparagraphandgiveitsapprovalifthe
childistoliveinthecountryconcernedwithaparent;guardian,orothersuitableperson.
(5)Whereapersonwhoseconsentisrequiredbysubparagraph(3)(d)ofthisparagraphfailstogive
hisconsent,theCourtmaydisregardthatprovisionandgiveitsapprovalifitissatisfiedthattheperson
(a) cannotbefound;
(b) isincapableofconsenting;or
(c) iswithholdinghisconsentunreasonably.
(6)WhereaCourtdecidestogiveitsapprovalunderthisparagraphitmayorderthatitsdecisionis
nottohaveeffectduringtheappealperiod.
(7)InSubparagraph(6)ofthisparagraph,"theappealperiod"means
(a) whereanappealsmadeagainstthedecision,theperiodbetweenthemakingofthe
decisionandthedeterminationoftheappeal;and
(b) otherwise,theperiodduringwhichanappealmaybemadeagainstthedecision.
20.(1)IfachildwhoisbeinglookedafterbyaStateGovernmentdies,theState3Government
(a) shallnotifytheMinister;
(b) shall,sofarasisreasonablypracticable,notifythechildsparentsandeveryperson
who,thoughnotaparentofthechild,hasparentalresponsibilityforthechild;
(c) may,withtheconsent(sofarasitisreasonablypracticabletoobtainit)ofevery
personwhohasparentalresponsibilityforthechild,oranyrelative,arrangeforthe
childsbodytobeburiedorcremated;and
(d) mayiftheconditionsmentionedinsubparagraph(2)ofthisparagrapharesatisfied,
makepaymentstoanypersonwhohasparentalresponsibilityforthechild,orany
relative,friendorotherpersonconnectedwiththechild,inrespectoftravelling,
subsistenceorotherexpensesincurredbythatpersonattendingthechildsfuneral.
(2)Theconditionsreferredtoinsubparagraph(1)(d)ofthisparagrapharethat
(a) itappearstotheauthoritythatthepersonconcernedcouldnototherwiseattendthe
childsfuneralwithoutunduefinancialhardships;and
(b) thatthecircumstanceswarrantthemakingofthepayments.
(3)Subparagraph(1)ofthisparagraphdoesnotauthorizecremationwhereitdoesnotaccordwiththe
practiceofthechildsreligiouspersuasion.
(4)WhereaStateGovernmenthasexerciseditspowerundersubparagraph(1)(c)ofthisparagraph
withrespecttoachildwhowasundertheageofsixteenyearswhenhedied,itmayrecoverfromany
parentofthechildanyexpensesincurredbyit.
(5)Anysumsorecoverableshall,withoutprejudicetoanyothermethodofrecovery,berecoverable
summarilyasacivildebt.
(6)Nothinginthisparagraphaffectsanyenactmentregulatingorauthorizingtheburial,cremationor
anatomicalexaminationofthebodyofadeceasedperson.
PARTIII
ContributiontowardsmaintenanceofchildrenlookedafterbyStateGovernments
Liabilitytocontribute
21.(1)WhereaStateGovernmentislookingafterachild(otherthaninthecasesmentionedinSub
paragraph(7)ofthisparagraph),itshallconsiderwhetheritshouldrecovercontributionstowardsthe
child'smaintenancefromanypersonliabletocontribute("acontributor").
(2)AStateGovernmentmayonlyrecovercontributionsfromacontributorifitconsidersitreasonable
todoso.
(3)Thepersonsliabletocontributeare
(a) wherethechildisundertheageofsixteenyears,eachofhisparents;
(b) wherehehasattainedtheageofsixteenyears,thechildhimself.
(4)Aparentisnotliabletocontributeduringanyperiodwhenheisinreceiptofincomesupportor
publicfunds.
(5)ApersonisnotliabletocontributetowardsthemaintenanceofachildinthecareofaState
GovernmentinrespectofanyperiodduringwhichthechildisallowedbytheStateGovernmentunder
section177ofthisActtolivewithaparentofthechild.
(6)Acontributorisnotobligedtomakeanycontributiontowardsachild'smaintenanceexceptas
agreedordeterminedinaccordancewiththisPartofthisSchedule.
(7)Thecasesreferredtoundersubparagraph(1)ofthisparagrapharewherethechildislookedafter
byaStateGovernmentunder
(a) section177ofthisAct;or
(b) aninterimcareorder;or
(c) anyprescribedenactment.
Agreedcontributions
22.(1)Contributionstowardsachild'smaintenancemayonlyberecoverediftheStateGovernmenthas
servedanotice("acontributionnotice")onthecontributorspecifying
(a) theweeklysumwhichitconsidersthatheshouldcontribute;and
(b) arrangementsforpayment.
(2)Thecontributionnoticemustbeinwritinganddated.
(3)Arrangementsforpaymentshall,inparticular,include
(a) thedateonwhichliabilitytocontributebegins,whichshallnotbeearlierthanthedate
ofthenotice;
(b) thedateonwhichliabilityunderthenoticewillendifthechildhasnotbeforethatdate
ceasedtobelookedafterbytheStateGovernment;and
(c) thedateonwhichthefirstpaymentistobemade.
(4)TheStateGovernmentmayspecifyincontributionnoticeaweeklysumwhichisastandard
contributiondeterminedbyitforallchildrenlookedafterbyit.
(5)TheStateGovernmentmaynotspecifyinacontributionnoticeaweeklysumgreaterthatthat
whichitconsiders
(a) itwouldnormallybepreparedtopayifithadplacedasimilarchildwithState
Governmentfosterparents;and
(b) itisreasonablypracticableforthecontributortopayhavingregardtohismeans.
(6)AStateGovernmentmayatanytimewithdrawacontributionnoticewithoutprejudicetoits
powertoserveanother.
(7)WheretheStateGovernmentandthecontributoragree
(a) thesumwhichthecontributoristocontribute;and.
(b) arrangementsforpayment,whetherasspecifiedinthecontributionnoticeor
otherwiseandthecontributornotifiestheStateGovernmentinwritingthatheso
agrees,theStateGovernmentmayrecoversummarilyasacivildebtanycontribution
whichisoverdueandunpaid.
(8)Acontributormay,byservinganoticeinwritingontheStateGovernment,withdrawhis
agreementinrelationtoanyperiodofliabilityfallingafterthedateofserviceofthenotice.
(9)Subparagraph(7)ofthisparagraphiswithoutprejudicetoanyothermethodofrecovery.
Contributionorders
23.(1)Whereacontributorhasbeenservedwithacontributionnoticeandhas
(a) failedtoreachanyagreementwiththeStateGovernmentasmentionedinparagraph22
(7)ofthisSchedulewithintheperiodofonemonthbeginningwiththedayonwhichthe
contributionnoticewasserved;or
(b) servedanoticeunderparagraph22(8)ofthisSchedulewithdrawinghisagreement,
theStateGovernmentmayapplytotheCourtforanorderunderthisparagraph.
(2)Onsuchanapplicationundersubparagraph(1)ofthisparagraph,theCourtmaymakeanorder
("acontributionorder")requiringthecontributortocontributeaweeklysumtowardsthechild's
maintenanceinaccordancewitharrangementsforpaymentspecifiedbytheCourt.
(3)Acontributionorder
(a) shallnotspecifyaweeklysumgreaterthanthatspecifiedinthecontributionnotice;
and
(b) shallbemadewithdueregardtothecontributor'smeans.
(4)Acontributionsordershallnot
(a) takeeffectbeforethedatespecifiedinthecontributionnotice;or
(b) haveeffectwhilethecontributorisnotliabletocontributebyvirtueofparagraph21of
thisSchedule;or
(c) remaininforceafterthechildhasceasedtobelookedafterbytheStateGovernment
whichobtainedtheorder.
(5)AStateGovernmentmaynotapplytotheCourtunderSubparagraph(1)ofthisSchedulein
relationtoacontributionnoticewhichithaswithdrawn.
(6)Where
(a) acontributionorderisinforce;
(b) theStateGovernmentservesanothercontributionnotice;and
(i) thecontributorandtheStateGovernmentreachanagreementunderparagraph22(7)
ofthisscheduleinrespectofthatothercontributionnotice,
theeffectoftheagreementshallbetodischargetheorderfromthedateonwhichitisagreedthatthe
agreementshalltakeeffect.
(7)WhereanagreementisreachedunderSubparagraph(6)ofthisparagraphtheStateGovernment
shallnotifytheCourt
(a) oftheagreement;and
(b) ofthedateonwhichittookeffect.
(8)AcontributionordermaybevariedorrevokedontheapplicationofthecontributorortheState
Government.
(9)Inproceedingsforthevariationofacontributionorder,theStateGovernmentshallspecify
(a) theweeklysumwhich,havingregardtoparagraph22ofthisSchedule,itproposesthat
thecontributorshouldcontributeundertheorderasvaried;and
(b) theproposedarrangementsforpayment.
(10)Whereacontributionorderisvaried,theorder
(a) shallnotspecifyaweeklysumgreaterthanthatspecifiedbytheStateGovernmentin
theproceedingsforvariation;and
(b) shallbemadewithdueregardtothecontributor'smeans.
(11)AnappealshalllieinaccordancewithRulesofCourtfromanyordermadeunderthisparagraph.
Enforcementofcontributionsorders,etc.
24.(1)AcontributionordermadebytheCourtattheMagisteriallevelshallbeenforceableasa
magistrates'Courtmaintenanceorder.
(2)Whereacontributorhasagreed,orhasbeenordered,tomakecontributionstoaState
Government,anyotherStateGovernmentwithinwhoseStatethecontributorisforthetimebeingliving
may
(a) attherequestoftheStateGovernmentwhoservedthecontributionnotice;and
(b) subjecttoagreementastoanysumtobedeductedinrespectofservicesrendered,
collectfromthecontributoranycontributionsdueonbehalfoftheStateGovernment
whoservedthenotice.
(3)thepowertocollectsumsundersubparagraph(2)ofthisparagraphincludesthepowerto
(a) receiveandgiveadischargeforanycontributionsdue;and
(b) ifnecessaryenforcepaymentofanycontribution,notwithstandingthatthose
contributionsmayhavefallendueatatimewhenthecontributorwaslivingelsewhere.
(4)Anycontributioncollectedundersubparagraph(2)ofthisparagraphshallbepaid(subjecttoany
agreeddeduction)totheStateGovernmentwhoservedthecontributionnotice.
(5)Inanyproceedingsunderthisparagraph,adocumentwhichpurportstobe
(a) acopyofanordermadebyaCourtunderorbyvirtueofparagraph23ofthisSchedule;
and
(b) certifiedasatruecopybytheRegistraroftheCourt,shallbeevidenceoftheorder.
(6)Inanyproceedingsunderthisparagraph,acertificatewhich
(a) purportstobesignedbyadulyauthorisedofficeroftheStateGovernmentwho
obtainedthecontributionorder;and
(b) statethatanysumduetotheStateGovernmentundertheorderisoverdueand
unpaid,
shallbeevidencethatthesumisoverdueandunpaid.
Regulations
25.TheMinistermaymakeregulations
(a) astotheconsiderationswhichaStateGovernmentshalltakeintoaccountindeciding:
(i) whetheritisreasonabletorecovercontributionsand
(ii) whatthearrangementsforpaymentshouldbe
(b) astotheproceduresitmustfollowinreachingagreementswith
(i) contributors(underparagraphs22and23ofthisSchedule);and
(ii) anyotherStateGovernment(underparagraph23ofthisSchedule).
________________________
EIGHTSCHEDULE
[Sections184(9)and186(6)]
PARTI
ManagementandConductofCommunityHomes
InstrumentsofmanagementforcontrolledandassistedcommunityHomes
1.(1)TheMinistermaybyordermakeaninstrumentofmanagementprovidingfortheconstitutionofa
bodyofmanagersforanyvoluntaryhomewhichisdesignatedasacontrolledoranassistedcommunity
home.
(2)Subparagraph(3)ofthisparagraphapplieswheretwoormorevoluntaryhomesaredesignatedas
controlledcommunityhomesorasassistedcommunityhomes.
(3)If
(a) thosehomesareoraretobe,providedbythesamevoluntaryorganisation;and
(b) thesameStateGovernmentistoberepresentedonthebodyofmanagersforthose
homes.
asingleinstrumentofmanagementmaybemadebytheMinisterunderthisparagraphconstitutingone
bodyofmanagersforthehomesorforanytwoormoreofthem.
(4)Thenumberofpersonswho,inaccordancewithaninstrumentofmanagementconstitutethe
bodyofmanagersforavoluntaryhomeshallbesuchnumber(whichmustbeamultiplyofthree)asmay
bespecifiedintheinstrument.
(5)TheinstrumentshallprovidethattheStateGovernmentspecifiedintheinstrumentshallappoint
(a) inthecaseofavoluntaryhomewhichisdesignatedasacontrolledcommunityhome
twothirdsofthemanagers;and
(b) inthecaseofavoluntaryhomewhichisdesignatedasanassistedcommunityhome
onethirdofthemanagers.
(6)Aninstrumentofmanagementshallprovidethatthefoundationmanagersshallbeappointedin
suchmannerandbysuchpersonsasmaybespecifiedintheinstrument
(a) soastorepresenttheinterestsofthevoluntaryorganisationbywhichthehomeisoris
tobeprovided;and
(b) forthepurposeofsecuringthat
(i) sofarasispracticablethecharacterofthehomeasavoluntaryhomewillbe
preservedand
(ii) subjecttoparagraph2(3)ofthisSchedulethetermsofanytrustdeedrelating
tothehomeareobserved.
(7)Aninstrumentofmanagementshallcomeintoforceonsuchdateasitmayspecify.
(8)Ifanyinstrumentofmanagementisinforceinrelationtoavoluntaryhome,thehomeshallbe
(andbeknownas)acontrolledcommunityhomeorasanassistedcommunityhome,accordingtoits
designation.
(9)Inthisparagraph
"designated",meansdesignatedinaccordancewithSection190ofthisAct;and
"foundationmanagers",inrelationtoavoluntaryhome,meansthoseofthemanagersofthehome
whoarenotappointed;byaStateGovernmentinaccordancewithsubparagraph(5)ofthisparagraph.
2.(1)AninstrumentofmanagementshallcontainsuchprovisionsastheMinisterconsidersappropriate.
(2)Nothingintheinstrumentofmanagementshallaffectthepurposesforwhichthepremises
comprisingthehomeareheld.
(3)Withoutprejudicetothegeneralityofsubparagraph(1)ofthisparagraph,aninstrumentof
managementmaycontainprovisions
(a) specifyingthenatureandpurposeofthehome(oreachofthehomes)towhichit
relates;
(b) requiringaspecifiednumberorproportionoftheplacesinthathome(orthosehomes)
tobemadeavailabletoStateGovernmentsandtoanyotherbodyspecifiedinthe
instrument;and
(c) relatingtothemanagementofthathome(orthosehomes)andthechargingoffees
withrespectto
(i) childrenplacedthere,or
(ii) placesmadeavailabletoanyStateGovernmentorotherbody.
(4)Subjecttosubparagraphs(1)and(2)ofthisparagraphwherethereisanyinconsistencybetween
theprovisionsofanytrustdeedandaninstrumentofmanagement,theinstrumentofmanagement
shallprevailovertheprovisionsofthetrustdeedinsofarastheyrelatetothehomeconcerned.
(5)AfterconsultationwiththevoluntaryorganisationconcernedandwiththeStateGovernment
specifiedinitsinstrumentofmanagement,theMinistermaybyordervaryorrevokeanyprovisionof
theinstrument.
PARTII
ManagementofControlledandAssistedCommunityHomes
3.(1)Themanagement,equipmentandmaintenanceofacontrolledcommunityhomeshallbethe
responsibilityoftheStateGovernmentspecifiedinitsinstrumentofmanagement.
(2)Themanagement,equipmentandmaintenanceofanassistedcommunityhomeshallbethe
responsibilityofthevoluntaryorganisationbywhichthehomeisprovided.
(3)Thefunctionsofahome'sresponsiblebodyshallbeexercisedthroughthemanagers.
(4)Anythingdone,liabilityincurredorpropertyacquiredbyahome'smanagersshallbedone,incurred
oracquiredbythemasagentsoftheresponsiblebody.
(5)Insofarasanymatterisreservedforthedecisionofahome'sresponsiblebodyby
(a) subparagraph(7)ofthisparagraph;or
(b) theinstrumentofmanagement;or
(c) theservicebythebodyonthemanagers,oranyofthem,ofanoticereservingany
matter,thatmattershallbedealtwithbythebodyandnotbythemanagers.
(6)Indealingwithanymattersoreserved,theresponsiblebodyshallhaveregardtoany
representationmadetothebodybythemanagers
(7)Theemploymentofpersonsatahomeshallbeamatterreservedforthedecisionofthe
responsiblebody.
(8)Wheretheinstrumentofmanagementofacontrolledcommunityhomesoprovides,the
responsiblebodymayenterintoarrangementwiththevoluntaryorganisationbywhichthathomeis
providedwhereby,inaccordancewithsuchtermsasmaybeagreedbetweenthemandthevoluntary
organisation,personswhoarenotintheemploymentoftheresponsiblebodyshallundertakedutiesat
thathome.
(9)Subjecttosubparagraph(10)ofthisparagraph:
(a) wheretheresponsiblebodyforanassistedcommunityhomeproposestoengageany
persontoworkinthathomeortoterminatewithoutnoticetheemploymentofany
personatthathome,itshallconsulttheStateGovernmentspecifiedintheinstrument
ofmanagementand,ifthatStateGovernmentsodirects,theresponsiblebodyshallnot
carryoutitsproposalwithouttheirconsent;and
(b) thatStateGovernmentmay,afterconsultationwiththeresponsiblebody,requirethat
bodytoterminatetheemploymentofanypersonatthathome.
(10)Subparagraph(9)(a)and(b)ofthisparagraphshallnotapply
(a) insuchothercircumstancesasmaybespecifiedbynoticeinwritinggivenbytheState
Governmenttotheresponsiblebody;and
(b) inrelationtotheemploymentofanypersonsorclassofpersonsspecifiedinthe
homesinstrumentofmanagement.
(11)Theaccountingyearofthemanagersofahomeshallbesuchasmaybespecifiedbythe
responsiblebody.
(12)Beforesuchdateineachaccountingyearasmaybesospecified,themanagersofahomeshall
submittotheresponsiblebodyestimates,insuchformasthebodymayrequire,ofexpenditureand
receiptsinrespectofthenextaccountingyear.
(13)Anyexpensesincurredbythemanagersofahomewiththeapprovaloftheresponsiblebodyshall
bedefrayedbythatbody.
(14)Themanagersofahomeshallkeep
(a) properaccountswithrespecttothehome;and
(b) properrecordsinrelationtotheaccounts.
(15)Whereaninstrumentofmanagementrelatestomorethanonehome,onesetofaccountsand
recordsmaybekeptinrespectofallthehomestowhichitrelates.
(16)Inthisparagraph
"home"meansacontrolledcommunityhomeoranassistedcommunityhome,asthecasemaybe;and
"managers",inrelationtoahome,meansthemanagersconstitutedbyitsinstrumentofmanagement;
and
"responsiblebody",inrelationtoahome,meanstheStateGovernmentorvoluntaryorganisation,as
thecasemaybe,responsibleforitsmanagement,equipmentandmaintenance.
PARTIII
Regulations
4.(1)TheMinistermaymakeregulations
(a) astotheplacingofchildrenincommunityhomes;
(b) astotheconductofsuchhomes;and
(c) forsecuringthewelfareofchildreninsuchhomes.
(2)Theregulationsmay,inparticular
(a) prescribestandardstowhichthepremisesusedforsuchhomesaretoconform;
(b) imposerequirementsastotheaccommodation,staffandequipmenttobeprovidedin
suchhomes,andastothearrangementstobemadeforprotectingthehealthof
childreninsuchhomes;
(c) provideforthecontrolanddisciplineofchildreninsuchhomes;
(d) imposerequirementsastothekeepingofrecordsandgivingofnoticesinrespectof
childreninsuchhomes;
(e) imposerequirementsastothefacilitieswhicharetobeprovidedforgivingreligious
instructionstochildreninsuchhomes;
(f) authorisetheMinistertogiveandrevokedirectionsrequiring
(i) theStateGovernmentbywhomahomeisprovidedorwhoisspecifiedinthe
instrumentofmanagementforacontrolledcommunityhome,or
(ii) thevoluntaryorganisationbywhichanassistedcommunityhomeisprovided,
toaccommodateinthehomeachildlookedafterbyaStateGovernmentforwhomnoplaceismade
availableinthathomeortotakesuchactioninrelationtoachildaccommodatedinthehomeasmaybe
specifiedinthedirections;
(g) provideforconsultationwiththeMinisterastoapplicantsforappointmenttotake
chargeofahome;
(h) empowertheMinistertoprohibittheappointmentofanyparticularapplicant,exceptin
thecase(ifany)inwhichtheregulationsdispensewithsuchconsultationbyreasonthat
thepersontobeappointedpossessessuchqualificationsasmaybeprescribed;
(i) requiretheapprovaloftheMinisterfortheprovisionanduseofaccommodationforthe
purposeofrestrictingthelibertyofchildreninsuchhomesandimposeother
requirementsinadditiontothoseimposedbySection185ofthisAct,astotheplacing
ofachildinaccommodationprovidedforthatpurpose,includingarequirementto
obtainthepermissionofanyStateGovernmentwhoislookingafterthechild;
(j) providethat,tosuchextentasmaybeprovidedforintheregulations,theMinistermay
directthatanyprovisionorregulationsunderthisparagraphwhichisspecifiedinthe
directionandmakesanysuchprovisionasisreferredtoinsubparagraph(2)(a)or(b)of
thisparagraphshallnotapplyinrelationtoaparticularhomeorthepremisesusedfor
it,andmayprovideforthevariationorrevocationofanysuchdirectionbytheMinister.
(3)Withoutprejudicetothepowertomakeregulationsunderthisparagraphconferringfunctionson
(a) theStateGovernmentorvoluntaryorganisationbywhichacommunityhomeis
provided;or
(b) themanagersofacontrolledorassistedcommunityhome,regulationsunderthis
paragraphmayconferfunctionsinrelationtoacontrolledorassistedcommunityhome,
ontheStateGovernmentnamedintheinstrumentofmanagementforthehome.
________________________
NINTHSCHEDULE
[Section194(5)(c).]
VoluntaryHomesandVoluntaryOrganisations
PARTI
RegistrationofVoluntaryOrganisations
General
1.(1)Anapplicationforregistrationunderthisparagraphshall
(a) bemadebythepersonintendingtocarryonthehometowhichtheapplicationrelates;
and
(b) bemadeinsuchmanner,andbeaccompaniedbysuchparticulars,astheMinistermay
prescribe.
(2)Onanapplicationdulymadeundersubparagraph(1)ofthisparagraph,theMinistermay
(a) grantorrefusetheapplication,ashethinksfit;or
(b) granttheapplicationsubjecttosuchconditionsasheconsidersappropriate.
(3)TheMinistermay,fromtimetotime
(a) varyanyconditionforthetimebeinginforcewithrespecttoavoluntaryhomeby
virtueofthisparagraph;or
(b) imposeanadditionalcondition,eitherontheapplicationofthepersoncarryingonthe
homeorwithoutsuchanapplication.
(4)WhereatanytimeitappearstotheMinisterthattheconductofavoluntaryhome
(a) isnotinaccordancewithregulationsmadeunderparagraph7ofthisSchedule:ora
(b) isotherwiseunsatisfactory,
hemaycancel,registrationofthehomeandremoveitfromtheregister.
(5)Apersonwho,withoutreasonableexcuse,carriesonavoluntaryhomeincontraventionof
(a) Section196ofthisAct;or
(b) aconditiontowhichtheregistrationofthehomeisforthetimebeingsubjectbyvirtue
ofthisPartofthisSchedule,
commitsanoffence.
(6)Apersonconvictedofanoffenceunderthisparagraphisliableonsummaryconvictiontoafine
notexceeding
(a) onethousandnaira,ifhisoffenceisunderSubparagraph(5)(a)ofthisparagraph;or
(b) fivehundrednaira,ifitisundersubparagraph(5)(b)ofthisparagraph.
(7)WheretheMinisterregistersahomeunderthisparagraph,orcancelstheregistrationofa
home,heshallnotifytheStateGovernmentwithinwhoseStatethehomeissituated.
Procedure
2.(1)Where
(a) apersonappliesforregistrationofavoluntaryhome;and
(b) theMinisterproposestogranttheapplication,
theMinistershallgivehimwrittennoticeofhisproposalandoftheconditionssubjecttowhichhe
proposestogranttheapplication.
(2)TheMinisterneedsnotgivenoticeifheproposestogranttheapplicationsubjectonlyto
conditionswhich
(a) theapplicantspecifiedintheapplication;or
(b) theMinisterandtheapplicanthavesubsequentlyagreed.
(3)WheretheMinisterproposestorefusesuchanapplicationheshallgivenoticeofhisproposalto
theapplicant.
(4)TheMinistershallgiveanypersoncarryingonavoluntaryhomenoticeofaproposalto
(a) canceltheregistrationofthehome;or
(b) varyanyconditionforthetimebeinginforcewithrespecttothehomebyvirtueof
paragraph1ofthisScheduleor
(c) imposeanyadditionalcondition
(5)AnoticeunderthisparagraphshallgivetheMinister'sreasonsforhisproposal.
RighttomakeRepresentations
3.(1)Anoticeunderparagraph2ofthisScheduleshallstatethatwithin14daysofserviceofthenotice
anypersononwhomitisservedmay(inwriting)requiretheMinistertogivehimanopportunityto
makerepresentationstotheMinisterconcerningthematters.
(2).Whereanoticehasbeenservedunderparagraph2ofthisScheduletheMinistershallnot
determinethematteruntil
(a) persononwhomthenoticewasservedhasmaderepresentationstohimconcerningthe
matter;or
(b) theperiodduringwhichanysuchpersoncouldhaverequiredtheMinistertogivehim
anopportunitytomakerepresentationshaselapsedwithouttheMinisterbeing
requiredtogivesuchanopportunity;or
(c) theconditionsspecifiedinsubparagraph(3)ofthisparagrapharesatisfied.
(3)Theconditionsreferredtoinsubparagraph(2)(c)ofthisparagrapharethat
(a) apersononwhomthenoticewasservedhasrequiredtheMinistertogivehiman
opportunitytomakerepresentationstotheMinister;
(b) theMinisterhasallowedhimareasonableperiodtomakehisrepresentations;and
(c) hehasfailedtomakethemwithinthatperiod.
(4)Therepresentationsmaybemade,attileoptionofthepersonmakingthem,inwritingororally.
(5)IfthepersoninformstheMinisterthathedesirestomakeoralrepresentations,theMinister
shallgivehimanopportunityofappearingbefore,andofbeingheardbyapersonappointedbythe
Minister.
DecisionofMinister
4.(1)IftheMinisterdecidestoadopttheproposalheshallservenoticeinwritingofhisdecisiononany
persononwhomhewasrequiredtoservenoticeofhisproposal.
(2)Anoticeunderthisparagraphshallbeaccompaniedbyanoticeexplainingtherightofappeal
conferredbyparagraph5ofthisSchedule.
(3)AdecisionoftheMinister,otherthanadecisiontograntanapplicationforregistrationsubject
onlytosuchconditionsasarementionedinparagraph2(2)ofthisScheduleortorefuseanapplication
forregistrationshallnottakeeffect
(a) ifnoappealisbroughtuntiltheendoftheperiodoftwentyeightdaysreferredtoin
paragraph5(3)ofthisSchedule;and
(b) ifanappealisbroughtuntilitisdeterminedorabandoned.
Appeals
5.(1)AnappealagainstadecisionoftheMinisterunderPanXVIIofthisActshalllietotheCourtatthe
HighCourtlevel.
(2)AnappealshallbebroughtbynoticeinwritinggiventotheMinister.
(3)Noappealmaybebroughtbyapersonmorethantwentyeightdaysafterserviceonhimof
noticeofthedecision.
(4)Onanappeal,theCourtmayconfirmtheMinister'sdecisionordirectthatitshallnothave
effect.
(5)TheCourtshallalsohavepoweronanappealto
(a) varyanyconditionforthetimebeinginforcebyvirtueofPartXVIIofthisActwith
respecttothehometowhichtheappealrelates;
(b) directthatanysuchconditionshallceasetohaveeffect;or
(c) directthatanysuchconditionsasitthinksfitshallhaveeffectwithrespecttothehome.
NotificationofParticularswithrespecttoVoluntaryHomes
6.(1)Itshallbethedutyofthepersoninchargeofanyvoluntaryhomeestablishedafterthe
commencementofthisActtosendtotheMinisterwithinthreemonthsfromtheestablishmentofthe
homesuchparticularswithrespecttothehomeastheMinistermayprescribe.
(2)Itshallbethedutyofthepersoninchargeofanyvoluntaryhome(whetherestablishedbeforeor
afterthecommencementorthisAct)tosendtotheMinistersuchparticularswithrespecttothehome
asmaybeprescribed.
(3)Theparticularsshallbesent
(a) inthecaseofahomeestablishedbeforethecommencementofthisAct,ineveryyear;
or
(b) inthecaseofahomeestablishedafterthecommencementofthisAct,ineveryyear
subsequenttotheyearinwhichparticularsaresentunderSubparagraph(1)ofthis
paragraph,bysuchdateastheMinistermayprescribe.
(4)WheretheMinisterbyregulationsvariestheparticularswhicharetobesenttohimunder
subparagraph(1)or(2)ofthisparagraphbythepersoninchargeofavoluntaryhome
(a) thatpersonshallsendtotheMinistertheprescribedparticularswithinthreemonths
fromthedateofthemakingoftheregulations;
(b) ifanysuchhomewasestablishedbefore,butnotmorethanthreemonthsbefore,the
makingoftheregulations,compliancewithsubparagraph(4)(a)ofthisparagraphshall
besufficientcompliancewiththerequirementofsubparagraph(2)ofthisparagraphto
sendtheprescribedparticularswithinthreemonthsfromtheestablishmentofthe
home;
(c) intheyearinwhichtheparticularsarevaried,compliancewithsubparagraph(4)(a)of
thisparagraphbythepersoninchargeofanyvoluntaryhomeshallbesufficient
compliancewiththerequirementofsubparagraph(2)ofthisparagraphtosendthe
prescribedparticularsbeforetheprescribeddateinthatyear.
(5)Ifthepersoninchargeofavoluntaryhomefails,withoutreasonableexcuse,tocomplywithany
oftherequirementsofthisparagraphhecommitsanoffence.
(6)AnypersonconvictedofanoffenceunderSubparagraph(5)isliableonsummaryconvictiontoa
finenotexceedingtwothousandfivehundrednairaorimprisonmentforatermnotexceedingthree
monthsortobothsuchfineandimprisonment.
PARTII
RegulationsastoVoluntaryHomes
RegulationsastoConductofvoluntaryhomes
7.(1)TheMinistermaymakeregulations
(a) astotheplacingofchildreninvoluntaryhomes;
(b) astotheconductofthehomes;and
(c) forsecuringthewelfareofchildreninthehomes;
(2)Theregulationsmay,inparticular
(a)prescribestandardstowhichthepremisesusedforthehomesaretoconform;
(b) imposerequirementsastotheaccommodation,staffandequipmenttobeprovidedin
thehomes,andastothearrangementstobemadeforprotectingthehealthofchildren
inthehomes;
(c) provideforthecontrolanddisciplineofchildreninthehomes;
(d) requirethefurnishingtotheMinisterofInformationastothefacilitiesprovidedfor
(i) theparentsofchildreninthehomes,and
(ii) personswho,thoughnotparentsofthechildren,haveparentalresponsibility
forthosechildren,and
(iii) otherpersonsconnectedwiththechildren,tovisitandcommunicate
withthechildren;
(e) authorisetheMinistertolimitthenumberofchildrenwhomaybeaccommodatedin
anyparticularvoluntaryhome;
(f) prohibittheuseofaccommodationforthepurposeofrestrictingthelibertyofchildren
inthevoluntaryhomes;
(g) imposerequirementsastothekeepingofrecordsandgivingofnoticeswithrespectto
childreninthevoluntaryhomes;
(h) imposerequirementsastothefacilitieswhicharetobeprovidedforgivingreligious
instructiontochildreninthevoluntaryhomes;
(i) requirenoticetobegiventotheMinisterofanychangeofthepersoncarryingonorin
chargeofavoluntaryhomeorofthepremisesusedbythehome.

(3)Theregulationsmayprovidethatacontraventionof,orfailuretocomplywith,anyspecified
provisionoftheregulationswithoutreasonableexcuseshallbeanoffenceagainsttheregulations.
(4)Anypersonconvictedofanoffenceunderthisparagraphisliabletoafinenotexceedingtwo
thousandfivehundrednairaorimprisonmentforatermnotexceedingthreemonthsortobothsuch
fineandimprisonment.
Disqualification
8.TheMinistermaybyregulationsmakeprovisionwithrespecttothedisqualificationofpersonsin
relationtovoluntaryhomesofakindsimilartothatmadeinrelationtochildren'shomesbySection201
ofthisAct.
_______________________
TENTHSCHEDULE
[Section195(8).]
RegisteredChildren'sHomes
PARTI
Registration
ApplicationforRegistration
1.(1)Anapplicationfortheregistrationofachildren'shomeshallbemade
(a) bythepersoncarryingon,orintendingtocarryon,thehome;and
(b) totheGovernmentoftheStateinwhichthehomeis,oristobe,situated.
(2)Theapplicationshallbemadeintheprescribedmannerandshallbeaccompaniedby
(a) suchparticularsasmaybeprescribed;and
(b) suchreasonablefeeastheStateGovernmentmaydetermine.
(3)IfaStateGovernmentissatisfiedthatachildren'shomewithrespecttowhichanapplicationhas
beenmadeinaccordancewiththisSchedulecompliesor(asthecasemaybe)willcomply
(a) withsuchrequirementsasmaybeprescribed;and
(b) withsuchotherrequirements(ifany)asappeartoittobeappropriate,
itshallgranttheapplication,eitherunconditionallyorsubjecttoconditionsimposedunderparagraph2
ofthisSchedule.
(4)Beforedecidingwhetherornottograntanapplication,aStateGovernmentshallcomplywithany
prescribedrequirement.
(5).Regulationsmadeforthepurposesofsubparagraph(5)ofthisparagraphmay,inparticular,
makeprovisionastotheinspectionofthehomeinquestion.
(6)Whereanapplicationisgranted,theStateGovernmentshallnotifytheapplicantthatthehome
hasbeenregisteredunderthisActasfromsuchdateasmaybespecifiedinthenotice.
(7)IftheStateGovernmentisnotsatisfiedasmentionedinsubparagraph(4)ofthisparagraph,it
shallrefusetheapplication.
(8)ForthepurposesofthisAct,anapplicationwhichhasnotbeengrantedorrefusedwithinthe
periodoftwelvemonthsbeginningwiththedatewhenitisservedontheStateGovernmentshallbe
deemedtohavebeenrefusedbyit,andtheapplicantshallbedeemedtohavebeennotifiedofits
refusalattheendofthatperiod.
(9)Whereaschooltowhichsection195ofthisActappliesisregistereditshallnotceasetobea
registeredchildren'shomebyreasononlyofasubsequentchangeinthenumberofchildrenforwhomit
providesaccommodation.
ConditionsimposedonRegistration
2.(1)AStateGovernmentmaygrant1napplicationforregistrationsubjecttosuchconditionsrelatingto
theconductofthehomeasitthinksfit.
(2)AStateGovernmentmayfromtimetotime
(a) varyanyconditionforthetimebeinginforcewithrespecttoahomebyvirtueofthis
paragraph;or
(b) imposeanadditionalcondition,eitherontheapplicationofthepersonmanagingthe
homeorwithoutsuchanapplication.
(3)Ifanyconditionimposedorvariedunderthisparagraphisnotcompliedwith,thepersoncarrying
onthehome,ifhehasnoreasonableexcuse,commitsanoffenceandisliableonsummaryconvictionto
afinenotexceedingtwothousandfivehundrednairaorimprisonmentforatermnotexceedingthree
monthsortobothsuchfineandimprisonment.
AnnualreviewofRegistration
3.(1)InthisPartofthisSchedule,"theresponsibleauthority",inrelationtoaregisteredchildren's
homemeanstheStateGovernmentwhichregisteredthechildren'shome.
(2)Theresponsibleauthorityforaregisteredchildren'shomeshall,attheendoftheperiodoftwelve
monthsbeginningwiththedateofregistration,andannuallythereafter,reviewitsregistrationforThe
purposeofdeterminingwhethertheregistrationshouldcontinueinforceorbecanceledunder
paragraph4(3)ofthisSchedule.
(3)Ifonanyannualreviewtheresponsibleauthorityissatisfiedthatthehomeisbeingcarriedonin
accordancewiththerelevantrequirements.itshalldeterminethat,subjecttoSubparagraph(4)ofthis
paragraph,Theregistrationshouldcontinueinforce.
(4)Theresponsibleauthorityshallgivetothepersonmanagingthehomenoticeoftheir
determinationunderSubparagraph(3)ofthisparagraphandthenoticeshallrequirehimtopaytoThe
responsibleauthoritywithrespecttothereviewsuchreasonablefeeastheresponsibleauthoritymay
determine.
(5)Itshallbeaconditionofthehome'scontinuedregistrationthatthefeeissopaidbeforetheexpiry
oftheperiodoftwentyeightdaysbeginningwiththedateonwhichthenoticeisreceivedbytheperson
carryingonthehome.
CancellationofRegistration
4.(1)Thepersoncarryingonaregisteredchildren'shomemayatanytimemakeanapplication,insuch
mannerandincludingsuchparticularsasmaybeprescribed,forthecancellationbytheresponsible
authorityoftheregistrationofthehome.
(2)Iftheresponsibleauthorityissatisfied,inthecaseofaschoolregisteredbyvirtueofsection195
(4)ofthisAct,thatitisnolongeraschooltowhichthatprovisionapplies,theresponsibleauthorityshall
givetothepersoncarryingonthehomenoticethattheregistrationofthehomehasbeencancelledas
fromthedateofthenotice.
(3)Ifonanyannualreviewunderparagraph3ofthisSchedule,oratanyothertime,itappearstothe
responsibleauthoritythataregisteredhomeisbeingcarriedonotherwisethaninaccordancewiththe
relevantrequirements,itmaydeterminethattheregistrationofthehomeshouldbecancelled.
(4)Theresponsibleauthoritymayatanytimedeterminethattheregistrationofahomeshouldbe
cancelledontheground
(a) thatthepersoncarryingonthehomehasbeenconvictedofanoffenceunderthisPart
ofthisActoranyregulationsmadeunderparagraphof10ofthisSchedule;or
(b) thatanyotherpersonhasbeenconvictedofsuchanoffenceinrelationtothehome.
Procedure
5.(1)Where
(a) apersonappliesfortheregistrationofachildren'shome;and
(b) theStateGovernmentproposestogranthisapplication,
itshallgivehimwrittennoticeofitsproposalandoftheconditions(ifany)subjecttowhichitproposes
togranthisapplication.
(2)Theresponsibleauthorityneednotgivenoticeifitproposestogranttheapplicationsubjectonly
toconditionswhich
(a) theapplicantspecifiedintheapplication;or
(b) theresponsibleauthorityandtheapplicanthavesubsequentlyagreed.
(3)Theresponsibleauthorityshallgiveanapplicantnoticeofaproposaltorefusehisapplication.
(4)Theresponsibleauthorityshallgiveanypersoncarryingonaregisteredchildren'shomenoticeofa
proposal
(a) tocanceltheregistration;
(b) tovaryanyconditionforthetimebeinginforcewithrespecttothehomebyvirtueof
PartXVIIofthisAct;or
(c) toimposeanyadditionalcondition.
(5)Anoticeunderthisparagraphshallgivetheresponsibleauthority'sreasonsforitsproposal.
RighttomakeRepresentations
6.(1)Anoticeunderparagraph5ofthisScheduleshallstatethatwithinfourteendaysofserviceany
persononwhomitisservedmayinwritingrequiretheStateGovernmenttogivehiman,opportunityto
makerepresentationstothemconcerningthematter.
(2)Whereanoticehasbeenservedunderparagraph5ofthisSchedule,theStateGovernmentshall
notdeterminethematteruntil
(a) anypersononwhomthenoticewasservedhasmaderepresentationstoitconcerning
thematter;
(b) theperiodduringwhichthepersoncouldhaverequiredtheStateGovernmenttogive
himanopportunitytomakerepresentationshaselapsedwithoutitsbeingrequiredto
givesuchanopportunity;or
(c) theconditionsspecifiedinsubparagraph(3)ofthisparagrapharesatisfied.
(3)Theconditionsreferredtoinsubparagraph(2)(c)ofthisparagraphare
(a) thatapersononwhomthenoticewasservedhasrequiredtheStateGovernmentto
givehimanopportunitytomakerepresentationstoitconcerningthematter;
(b) thattheStateGovernmenthasallowedhimareasonableperiodtomakehis
representations;and
(c) thathehasfailedtomaketherepresentationswithinthatperiod.
(4)Therepresentationsmaybemade,attheoptionofthepersonmakingthem,inwritingororally.
(5)IfheinformstheStateGovernmentthathedesirestomakeoralrepresentations,theState
Governmentshallgivehimanopportunityofappearingbeforeandofbeingheardbyitscommitteeor
subcommittee.
DecisionofStateGovernment
7.(1)IftheStateGovernmentdecidestoadoptitsownproposaltograntanapplication,itshallserve
noticeinwritingofitsdecisiononanypersononwhomitisrequiredtoservenoticeofitsproposal.
(2)Anoticeunderthisparagraphshallbeaccompaniedbyanexplanationoftherightofappeal
conferredbyparagraph8ofthisSchedule.
(3)AdecisionofaStateGovernment,otherthanadecisiontograntanapplicationforregistration
subjectonlytosuchconditionsasarementionedinparagraph5(2)ofthisScheduleortorefusean
applicationforregistrationshallnottakeeffect
(a) ifnoappealisbrought,untiltheendoftheperiodoftwentyeightdaysreferredtoin
paragraph8(3)ofthisSchedule;and
(b) ifanappealisbrought,untilitisdeterminedorabandoned.
Appeals
8.(1)AnappealagainstadecisionofaStateGovernmentunderPanXVIIIofthisAct,shalllietothe
CourtattheHighCourtlevel.
(2)AnappealshallbebroughtbynoticeinwritinggiventotheStateGovernment.
(3)Noappealshallbebroughtbyapersonmorethantwentyeightdaysafterserviceonhimof
noticeofthedecision.
(4)Onanappeal,theCourtmayconfirmtheStateGovernment'sdecisionordirectthatitshallnot
haveeffect.
(5)ACourtshallalsohavepoweronanappeal
(a) tovaryanyconditioninforcewithrespecttothehometowhichtheappealrelatesby
virtueofparagraph2ofthisSchedule;
(b) todirectthattheconditionshallceasetohaveeffect;or
(c) todirectthatanysuchconditionasitthinksfitshallhaveeffectwithrespecttothe
home.
(6)AStateGovernmentshallcomplywithanydirectiongivenbyaCourtunderthisparagraph.
ProhibitiononfurtherApplication
9.(1)Whereanapplicationfortheregistrationofahomeisrefused,nofurtherapplicationmaybe
madewithintheperiodofsixmonthsbeginningwiththedatewhentheapplicantisnotifiedofthe
refusal.
(2)Subparagraph(1)ofthisparagraphshallhaveeffect,whereanappealagainsttherefusalofan
applicationisdeterminedorabandoned,asifthereferencetothedatewhentheapplicantisnotifiedof
therefusalwereareferencetothedateonwhichtheappealisdeterminedorabandoned.
(3)Wheretheregistrationofahomeiscancelled,noapplicationfortheregistrationofthehomeshall
bemadewithintheperiodofsixmonthsbeginningwiththedateofcancellation.
(4)Subparagraph(3)ofthisparagraphshallhaveeffect,whereanappealagainstthecancellationof
theregistrationofahomeisdeterminedorabandoned,asifthereferencetothedateofcancellation
wereareferencetothedateonwhichtheappealisdeterminedorabandoned.
PARTII
RegulationsandInterpretation
10.(1)TheMinistermaymakeregulations
(a) astotheplacingofchildreninregisteredchildren'shomes;
(b) astotheconductofthehomes;and
(c) forsecuringthewelfareofthechildreninthehomes.
(2)Theregulationsmayinparticular
(a) prescribestandardstowhichthepremisesusedforthehomesaretoconform;
(b) imposerequirementsastotheaccommodation,staffandequipmenttobeprovidedin
thehomes;
(c) imposerequirementsastothearrangementstobemadeprotectingthehealthof
childreninthehomes;
(d) provideforthecontrolanddisciplineofchildreninthehomes;
(e) requirethefurnishingtotheresponsibleauthorityofinformationastothefacilities
providedfor
(i) theparentsofchildreninsuchhomes;
(ii) personswho,thoughnotparentsofthechildren,haveparentalresponsibility
forthosechildren;and
(iii) otherpersonsconnectedwiththechildren,tovisitandcommunicatewiththe
children;
(f) imposerequirementsastothekeepingofrecordsandgivingofnoticeswithrespectto
childreninthehomes;
(g) imposerequirementsastothefacilitieswhicharetobeprovidedforgivingreligious
instructiontochildreninthehomes;
(h) makeprovisionastothecarryingoutofannualreviewsunderparagraph3ofthis
Schedule;
(i) authorisetheresponsibleauthoritytolimitthenumberofchildrenwhomaybe
accommodatedinanyparticularregisteredhome;
(j) prohibittheuseofaccommodationforthepurposeofrestrictingthelibertyofchildren
inthehomes;
(k) requirenoticetobegiventotheresponsibleauthorityofanychangeoftheperson
carryingonorinchargeofaregisteredhomeorofthepremisesusedbythehome;
(l) makeprovisionsimilartothatmadebyregulationsundersection178ofthisAct.
(3)Theregulationsmayprovidethatacontraventionoforfailuretocomplywithanyspecified
provisionoftheregulation,withoutreasonableexcuse,constitutesanoffenceagainsttheregulations.
(4)Apersonwhocommitsoffenceunderthisparagraphisliableonsummaryconvictiontoafinenot
exceedingtwothousandfivehundrednairaortoimprisonmentforatermnotexceedingthreemonths
ortobothsuchfineandimprisonment.
11. InthisSchedule
"relevantrequirements"meansanyrequirementsofPartXVIIIofthisActandofanyregulations
madeunderparagraph10ofthisSchedule,andanyconditionsimposedunderparagraph2ofthis
Schedule;
"responsibleauthority"inrelationtoaregisteredchildren'shomemeanstheStateGovernment
whichregisterthechildren'shome.
______________________
ELEVENTHSCHEDULE
[Section276.]
FormsinrelationtoPartsVI,XXAndXXIofthisAct
1.FORMFORCOMMITTALORDERBYTHEFAMILYCOURT
CommittalOrderForm
IntheFamilyCourtof....State
Thelevel..Town
Letthe*boyorgirlknownbythenameof..
whosedescriptionappearsbelowbetakento.......
(NameofInstitutionorPerson)
andbetheredetainedinthecustodyandcareof
....subjecttotheprovisionofthisAct.
(thepersoninchargeofthesaidinstitutionorthenameofthesaidperson)
ThisCommittalOrdershallremaininforcefromthedatethereofuptoandinclusiveofthe.
...dayof20..
DESCRIPTION
NameSexAge..
Tribeorcommunity....
Nameandaddressoffather................................................
Nameandaddressofmother....
Descriptionofchild..
Reasonforissueofcommittalorder.
DATEDthis..dayof..,20..
Judge...Division/Level
Magistrate....Division/Level
Confirmedthis..day.of....20...
.
Judge/Magistrate
*Deleteasrequired
_________________________
2.GENERALTITLEFORM
IntheFamilyCourtofDistrictHighCourt/MagisterialLevel
CaseNo20
Between..Complainant/Applicant
And.Defendant/Respondent
3.FORMFORWARRANTFORAPPREHENSIONOFCHILD
(GENERALTITLEFORM2)
.Complaintonoathbeenmadeon
The..dayof...,20.
By.....CD.
that.......ABachild,onthe...
dayof,20.at..
....intheJudicialDivision/MagisterialDistrictaforesaiddid/hasbeen/is*

*Statethesubstanceoftheoffenceorthedescriptionasmentioninsection156or157.
YouarethereforeherebycommandedtobringthesaidABbeforetheFamilyCourtaforesaidsitting
at.forthwithtoanswerthesaidcomplaint.
DATEDthis...dayof....20..
...
Magistrate
____________________________
4.FORMFORREMANDANDCOMMITTALTOSTATE
AccommodationandApprovedInstitutions
[Sections247,248,249,251and252]
(GENERALTITLEFORM2)
To....andtotheperson/officerinchargeof
theApprovedInstitutionat..
..hereinaftercalledtheplaceofdetention.
ABhereinaftercalledthedefendant,beingachildbroughtbeforetheaforesaidFamilyCourtsitting
at..chargedwithhaving*
.........
(Statethesubstanceoftheoffence)
Thehearingofthecasebeingadjourned
You,thesaidPoliceOfficer,areherebycommandedtoconveythedefendanttotheplaceofdetention,
andtheretodeliverhim/hertotheperson/officerinchargethereof,togetherwiththiswarrant,and
you,theperson/officerinchargeofthesaidplaceofdetention,toreceivehim/herintoyourcustody,
andunlesshe/sheshallhavebeenbailedinthemeantime,keephim/heruntilthe
dayof.....20....andonthatdayyou,thesaidPoliceOfficer,arerequired
toconveyhim/herbeforetheaforesaidFamilyCourtsittingat..
thehourof.....inthenoon,tobefurtherdealt
withaccordingtolaw,unlessotherwiseorderedinthemeantime.
DATEDthisdayof..20..
..
Judge/Magistrate
_______________________
5.FORMFORSUMMONSFORATTENDANCEOFPARENTORGUARDIAN,
[Sections216(2).]
(GENERALTITLEFORM2)
ToCDof........
AB,achildofwhomyouarestatedtobetheparent/guardianischargedforthatheonthe.
dayof...................20..at.
....inthe...
JudicialDivision/MagisterialDistrictaforesaiddid*..........................................
..
*Statethesubstanceoftheoffence
YouarethereforesummonedtoappearbeforetheFamilyCourtsittingat...
Onthedayof,20........................,
atthehourof.....inthe...noon,
andduringallthestagesoftheproceedings.
DATEDthis.dayof..20....
..
Judge/Magistrate
________________________
6.FORMFORNOTICETOPARENTORGUARDIAN:CAREORPROTECTION
(GENERALTITLEFORM2)
ToCDof......theparent/guardianofAB,achild.
TakenoticethatAB,achildistobebroughtbeforeFamilyCourtsittingat
the...dayof....,20....,
atthehourofinthe.....noon,
byvirtueoftheprovisionsofsectionoftheChildrenActonthegroundthat*
.
*Statethegroundofapplicationandthatyouarewarnedtoattendthesaidcourtduringallthestages
oftheproceedings.
DATEDthis....dayof....,20..
.....
PoliceOfficer/AuthorisedOfficer
NOTEAcopyofthisnoticeistobesenttotheRegistraroftheFamilyCourt.
_________________________
7.FORMFORSUMMONSTOPARENTTOCONTRIBUTE
[Sections52.]
(GENERALTITLEFORM2)
To....
of........
Complainthasbeenmadethisdaybythatyouare
thefather/stepfather/mother/stepmother(orapersoncohabitingwiththemother)ofAB,achild(or
apersoninwhosecareandcustodyAB,achild,hasbeenresidingfortwoyearsimmediatelypriorto
the...dayof...20..),
saidAB,andthatonthe(said)..dayof..,20.................,
acommittalorderwasaccordinglymadewherebythesaidABwascommittedto........................
aGovernmentAccommodation/ortothecareofCD.
YouarethereforesummonedtoappearbeforetheFamilyCourtsitting...
on..the...dayof..,20..,
atthehourof..inthe.noon,
toshowcausewhyanordershouldnotbemaderequiringyoutocontributesuchmonthlysumasthe
court,havingregardtoyourmeans,thinksfit.
DATEDthis.dayof..20..
....
Magistrate
____________________
8.FORMFORDISPOSALPENDINGOPERATIONOFCOMMITTALORDER
[Sections49and50.]
(GENERALTITLEFORM2)
To...
andtotheperson/officerinchargeoftheApprovedInstitutionat(ortoCDof)
ABachildhavingbeenorderedby.....sitting
at..onthe..dayof.,
20....tobesenttoanApprovedInstitution,andtheoperationofsuchcommittalorder
beingpostponed.
ItisorderedthatABbetakentotheApprovedInstitutionortothecustodyofthesaidCDat..
...andbethereorbyhim/hertothepersoninchargethereof
ortotheCDtogetherwiththiswarrantandyou,theperson/officerinchargeofthesaidApproved
InstitutionthesaidCDtoreceivehim/herintocustodyanddetainhim/herasaforesaid.
DATEDthis...dayof....,20...
....
Judge/Magistrate
___________________
9.FORMFORRECOGNISANCEUNDERSUPERVISIONORDER
[Section243.]
(GENERALTITLEFORM2)
TheundersignedPrincipalPartytothisrecognisanceherebybindshimselftoperformthefollowing
obligationsatalltimesduringaperiodof..fromthedatehereof
(Tobeofgoodbehaviour)
TobeandremainunderthesupervisionofAB(ortheSupervisionOfficerfromtimetotimefor
the...................................................area).
ToappearbeforetheCourtat,..tobefurtherdealtwith
anytimewhencalleduponbytheCourt(orwhensodirectedbythesaidAB(ofSupervisionOfficer):
(andsuchfurtherconditionsasthecasemayrequire).
AndthesaidPrincipalParty(togetherwiththeundersignedsurety(orsureties)herebyacknowledges
himself(acknowledgethemselves)boundtoforfeittotheGovernorthesum(s)following
thesaidPrincipalPartythesumofN....(andthesaidsurety(orsureties))
thesumN(each)incasethesaidPrincipalPartyfailstoperform
theaboveobligationsoranypartthereof.
..
Surety PrincipalParty
TAKENbeforemeatthis.dayof..20...............

.. ......
SwornInterpreter Judge/Magistrate
_______________________

10.FORMFORNOTICEOFCHANGEOFSUPERVISIONOFFICER
[Section239.]
SupervisionOfficer
(GENERALTITLEFORM2)
Takenoticethat.............................hasbeensubstitutedby(orwiththeapprovalof)
theFamilyCourttoperformthedutiesofSupervisionOfficerinyourcaseinplaceof....
andthatthenameofthesaid.
issubstitutedforthatofthesaid...
asfromthisdatewhereverthenameofthesaid.......
occursintheordermadebytheaforesaidcourtinyourcaseonthedayof,
20..andintherecognisanceenteredintobyyouthereupon.
DATEDthis...dayof..,20...
..
Judge/Magistrate
_________________
CHILDSRIGHTACT
SUBSIDIARYLEGISLATION
___________________________
NoSubsidiaryLegislation
______________________