Child Labour Crisis: 138 Million Children Still Working Worldwide, Says ILO
Nigeria has renewed its commitment to protecting children from exploitation as new figures from the International Labour Organisation (ILO) reveal that about 138 million children worldwide remain engaged in child labour, with millions involved in hazardous work.
The warning was raised during the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference in Geneva, where Nigeria reaffirmed efforts to eliminate child labour through stronger policies, enforcement, and awareness campaigns.
A Director in the Inspectorate Department of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Magaji Ademu, said Nigeria is strengthening its child protection response through the National Child Labour Policy and National Action Plan. The documents, developed with ILO support, aim to improve coordination and protect children from harmful work conditions.
Child labour remains a major safeguarding concern because it exposes children to dangers that affect their health, education, and development. Many children are forced into work because of poverty, limited access to education, and weak social protection systems.
According to the ILO, hazardous labour continues to deny children their right to safety and a healthy childhood. The organisation urged governments, businesses, and communities to address the root causes of exploitation.
The global “Red Card to Child Labour” campaign has also gained support as a call for urgent action. It highlights the need to ensure children remain in school and protected from dangerous work.
As Nigeria works towards the 2030 target of ending child labour, stakeholders say stronger enforcement and investment in families are essential. Protecting children requires more than policies; it requires systems that allow every child to grow, learn, and thrive.
