Child Labour: Impact and consequences of children exploitation

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00:00In the bustling streets of Nigeria, the silent crisis of child labour unfolds daily.

00:05Sadly, this harsh reality continues to strip millions of children of their childhood,

00:10education and future. A report from the National Bureau of Statistics has disclosed that over 24

00:16million Nigerian children are involved in child labour, and with 14.3 million of these children

00:21engaged in harcessers' work as of 2022. Now, as we commemorate the World Day Against Child

00:29Labour, it has become important for government authorities, NGOs and individuals to recognise

00:35the gravity of this issue and take appropriate action. But first, what is child labour?

00:44Child labour refers to the abuse of children through any work that interferes with their

00:49rights to attend regular education, or is psychologically, physically, socially or

00:55morally harmful. Now, poverty, lack of education and neglect force countless Nigerian children into

01:03child labour, some of them as young as five, toiled for long hours in dangerous conditions

01:10while performing tasks beyond their age. And these children miss out on crucial childhood experiences,

01:16knowledge and skills needed to achieve proper development. In addition, the physical and

01:22emotional toll is devastating, and this results in long-term health issues and deep psychological

01:28scars. What do the Nigerian laws say about child labour? The Nigerian constitution and the Child

01:34Rights Act of 2003 prohibits child exploitation, while also mandating free and compulsory basic

01:41education for every child and protecting them from economic and sexual exploitation. However,

01:48there is a need for government and the people to improve on the implementation of these laws.

01:54We must all take a stand. Ending child labour in Nigeria is not only the government's responsibility,

02:01we must collectively contribute our effort. Families, communities, schools and businesses

02:08must unite to protect our children. By advocating stronger law enforcement, supporting educational

02:14initiatives and raising awareness, we can begin to turn the tide. The Nigerian children are the

02:21future of the nation. They deserve a chance to learn, a chance to play and grow in a safe environment.

02:28Together, we can ensure every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

02:32Let us join hands to end child labour in Nigeria. Every child deserves a childhood and a bright future.