The First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has called on Nigerians to raise a “red card” against child labour and recommit to protecting children’s rights to safety, education, dignity, and well-being.
In a message marking the 2026 World Day Against Child Labour on Friday, themed “Red Card to Child Labour: Fair Play for Children, Decent Work for Adults,” Mrs Tinubu said no child should be denied the opportunity to learn and achieve their dreams because they are subjected to forced labour.
Child Labour refers to work for which children are either too young or that may be physically or psychologically injurious to their health and well-being.
“No child should be denied the opportunity to learn, grow, and achieve their dreams because they are subjected to forced labour. Children belong in homes, classrooms, playgrounds, and safe environments where they can grow and thrive,” she said.
The First Lady urged continuous investment in children’s well-being and created opportunities that empower families and communities to take care of the children.
“Let us all raise a red card against child labour and work together for a fairer and a promising future for every child,” she added.
While the government has enacted laws and regulations to address child labour, gaps remain in Nigeria’s legal framework. Despite existing laws like the Child Rights Act 2003, child labour remains a challenge, particularly in agriculture, street trading, domestic work, and artisanal mining.
In 2024, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) in its report titled ‘Nigeria Child Labour and Forced Labour Survey 2022’ said about 50.5 per cent of Nigerian children, aged between 5 and 17, are engaged in economic activities.
The report said 39.2 per cent of children (24, 673, 485) are in child labour and 22.9 per cent of children (14,390,353) are involved in hazardous work.
