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The Federal Government, in a statement released yesterday, expressed concern over the persistence of child labor across West Africa, with the agricultural sector being particularly affected.
Despite various measures put in place to fight this issue, child labor continues to be a serious challenge, and the government called for more urgent action to protect children and ensure they have the opportunity to grow, learn, and contribute to society in meaningful ways.
At the inaugural annual review meeting for child labor experts hosted by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in Abuja, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, revealed this critical information.
Speaking at the event, she underscored the urgent need for action to combat child labor across the region, emphasizing the role of collaboration and shared responsibility among West African nations.
With great dismay, the government highlighted the troubling fact that children are still subjected to grueling labor in unsafe environments, effectively denying them their right to education, proper healthcare, and the innocent experiences of childhood.
The government stressed that this exploitation hampers their development and is a barrier to the nation’s progress, as it robs young people of the chance to grow and contribute positively to society.
The minister described the meeting as a testament to the collective resolve to safeguard the fundamental rights of children and vulnerable individuals, ensuring a future where no one is subjected to exploitative practices.
She commended the ECOWAS, the International Labour Organisation, ILO, through the Action Against Child Labour in Agriculture in West Africa, ACLAWA, project for organising the meeting.
Onyejeocha said: “Your unwavering dedication to addressing these pressing issues reaffirms our commitment to fostering a just and equitable region. I wish to also appreciate all the child labour experts that are here today from different countries in the ECOWAS region, those visiting Nigeria for the first time and those who have been here before now, on behalf of the Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, I welcome you all to Nigeria.
“Child labour, particularly in the agricultural sector, remains a significant challenge across West Africa. Agriculture accounts for a substantial share of child labour globally, and our region is no exception. Children work long hours under hazardous conditions, depriving them of their right to education, health, and a childhood free from exploitation.
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“Similarly, forced labour continues to pose a grave concern, with vulnerable individuals coerced into exploitative work arrangements. These practices undermine the development of our nations, perpetuate cycles of poverty, and violate basic human rights.
“The factors driving child labour and forced labour are multifaceted, including poverty, limited access to quality education, socio-economic instability, and weak enforcement of labour laws
“Addressing these issues requires a coordinated, holistic, and sustained effort at local, national, and regional levels.”
