Title: Towards A Child-Friendly Nigeria: Legal Instruments For Child Rights
Authors: Dr. Amanawa, David Ebiegberi, Elemson, Oyinmiebi Favour
Volume: 8
Issue: 11
Pages: 406-423
Publication Date: 2024/11/28
Abstract:
This article examines the critical state of child rights in Nigeria, emphasizing the urgent need for effective legal frameworks and their implementation to ensure the protection and well-being of children. Despite Nigeria's ratification of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and the enactment of the Child Rights Act (CRA) in 2003, significant challenges persist, including child labor, trafficking, child marriage, and violence against children. Utilizing data from credible sources such as UNICEF, the International Labor Organization (ILO), and the World Health Organization (WHO), the article highlights alarming statistics, such as the estimated 20 million out-of-school children and high rates of child trafficking. The analysis identifies systemic issues such as cultural attitudes, inadequate resources, and enforcement gaps, which hinder the realization of child rights. The article proposes a multi-faceted approach involving legislative reforms, increased awareness and education, stakeholder collaboration, and community engagement to address these challenges. By implementing these recommendations, Nigeria can foster a more robust protective environment for its children, align national policies with international standards, and promote their rights as integral to social justice and sustainable development. The article aims to contribute to the ongoing discourse on child rights in Nigeria and inform policy considerations critical for recognizing vulnerable children's rights nationwide.