On this World Day Against Child Labour, FIDA Nigeria – Abuja Branch joins the global community in reaffirming our unwavering commitment to ending all forms of child labour.
The 2025 theme, “Progress is clear, but there’s more to do: Let’s speed up efforts!”, underscores the urgent need to build on the strides already made while accelerating actions to eliminate child labour in all its forms.
Despite legal protections such as the Child Rights Act 2003 and the Labour Act, exploitative child labour persists across the country – in the form of street hawking, domestic servitude, and other harmful practices.
A recent case involving a 14-year-old girl allegedly trafficked from an IDP camp in Sokoto to Abuja for domestic servitude by one Mrs Fauziya – wife of a serving judge – underlines the grave realities children still face, in violation of their rights and dignity.
Significantly, being that June 12 also marks Nigeria’s Democracy Day, it is hence a powerful reminder that democracy is not just about governance but about protecting the rights and welfare of all citizens – especially our vulnerable children.
A truly democratic Nigeria must guarantee education, safety, and equal opportunity for every child. Child labour not only robs children of their future but undermines the very principles of justice, equity, and human rights on which democracy is built.
FIDA Nigeria, Abuja Branch, therefore calls on all stakeholders – government, civil society, the media, and communities – to intensify efforts to eliminate child labour.
We urge strict enforcement of child protection laws, prosecution of offenders, expansion of accessible quality education, and increased investment in family economic empowerment to break the cycle of poverty that drives child labour.
Every child deserves a safe, dignified childhood and the opportunity to thrive. On this day of dual reflection and recommitment, let us act decisively to protect our children – because the future of our democracy depends on them.
Chioma Onyenucheya-Uko
Chairperson,
FIDA Nigeria, Abuja Branch
Also Read:
- NAPTIP, Women Lawyers Call for Stronger Synergy to Combat Human Trafficking
- FIDA Nigeria Press Statement on the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation
- FIDA Nigeria Press Release on the International Day of the Girl-Child 2024
