As Nigeria joins the global community to commemorate the International Day Against Child Labour, a member of the National Assembly Service Commission representing the South West, Hon. Taiwo Oluga, has expressed deep concern over the persistent and growing scourge of child labour across the country.
Speaking on the occasion, Hon. Oluga lamented that despite the domestication of the Child Rights Act in most states of the federation, incidents of child exploitation continue to rise.
She noted that the problem is not only driven by poverty or inadequate policy frameworks but also deeply rooted in harmful cultural practices that normalize child labour.
The lawmaker called for urgent and proactive interventions by state and local governments to tackle the menace, stressing that the current situation demands more than just policy statements.
“We have sufficient legislation in Nigeria to curb child labour,” she said, “but the major challenge lies in enforcement, especially at the subnational level where most violations occur.”
Hon. Oluga who represented Irewolede/Ayedaade/Isokan Federal Constituency in the 9th Assembly commended the Tinubu-led administration for its renewed commitment to the welfare of Nigerian children and youth, especially through policies that promote education, protect vulnerable groups, and create safe environments for young Nigerians to thrive.
She particularly praised the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her consistent advocacy and motherly role in championing the cause of children through various social intervention programs.
According to Hon. Oluga, the First Lady’s initiatives have brought hope and visibility to issues affecting children and have complemented government efforts in ensuring that no child is left behind.
She further appealed to parents, guardians, teachers, religious and community leaders to support the federal government’s goal of providing free and compulsory universal basic education.
She emphasized that all children of school age must be in school, as enshrined in the Child Rights Act.
Hon. Oluga also warned against the practice of releasing children to live with relatives or acquaintances in cities under the guise of seeking better opportunities, noting that many of the children end up as housemaids or victims of human trafficking, sometimes even beyond the shores of Nigeria.
“Law enforcement agencies must rise to the occasion by enforcing the provisions of the Child Rights Act without fear or favour,” she charged.
She concluded by stating that meaningful enforcement of child protection laws is essential to realizing the vision of the Tinubu administration for a safer, more inclusive, and prosperous future for Nigeria’s children and youth.
