Building a Child-Friendly Nation: Policy Initiatives and Challenges

Child labour remains a critical and pervasive global issue that casts a shadow over children’s fundamental rights and well-being. As of  2021, 160 million children, comprising 63 million girls and 97 million boys, were involved in child labour, compromising their childhood, education, and overall development. The impact of child labour is particularly concerning when considering the hazardous conditions under which a substantial portion of these children work. Nearly 79 million children aged 5 to 17 are compelled to undertake tasks that expose them to risks such as physical injuries and long-term health implications. These hazardous conditions impact their well-being and perpetuate cycles of poverty and diminished opportunities for advancement.The regions mostly affected by child labour are Africa, Asia, and the Pacific, accounting for nine out of every ten children in child labour worldwide.

This edition of Nextier SPD Policy Weekly looks at the prevalence of child labour in Nigeria. By fostering a deeper understanding of child labour’s complexities, this article seeks to inspire policy changes, ignite collaborative efforts, and contribute to the ongoing conversation for a Nigeria where every child can be a child.

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