The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has called for intensified national efforts to eliminate child labour in all its forms, describing it as both a moral and societal tragedy that robs millions of Nigerian children of their potential.
In a statement released on Thursday to mark the World Day Against Child Labour, Senator Tinubu urged for a holistic approach that combines legislative reforms, family support initiatives, and improved access to quality education.
“Let us speed up efforts to end child labour in all ramifications by strengthening our laws, supporting families, and investing in quality education for every child,” she said.
The 2025 global theme, “Let’s speed up efforts! End child labour!”, resonates strongly with the First Lady’s call to action.
Senator Tinubu expressed concern that, despite progress in various sectors, a significant number of Nigerian children are still trapped in hazardous and exploitative labour, depriving them of basic rights and opportunities.
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“It is unacceptable that in today’s Nigeria, countless children are still being subjected to work that deprives them of the chance to attend school, grow in safe environments, and pursue their dreams,” she declared.
“Today, we raise our voices for millions of children whose dreams are stolen by the harsh reality of child labour,” the First Lady added, emphasizing the need for collective advocacy and action.
Her statement aligns with growing national and international concerns over the impact of child labour, particularly in developing regions where poverty, limited access to education, and fragile social systems drive vulnerable families toward desperate coping mechanisms.
According to data from the International Labour Organization (ILO), over 160 million children around the world are currently engaged in child labour, with Africa recording the highest numbers.
In Nigeria alone, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) estimates that approximately 26.4 million children are involved in various forms of labour, often in dangerous conditions and outside the reach of formal education.
To address the crisis, Senator Tinubu advocated for a multi-faceted national response involving stricter law enforcement, expanded educational opportunities, and comprehensive family welfare programs that tackle the root causes of child labour.
She also called on government institutions, civil society organizations, the private sector, and the general public to join forces in safeguarding the rights and future of Nigerian children.
“I urge us to work towards building a country where every child is free to thrive, dream, and reach their God-given potential,” she appealed.
