First Lady Oluremi Tinubu Calls for United National Action to Eliminate Child Labour in Nigeria
First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has made a passionate appeal for the urgent eradication of child labour across Nigeria, describing it as a deep-rooted moral and social injustice that continues to rob millions of children of their future.
She emphasized that child labour not only deprives children of their right to education and a safe upbringing, but also undermines the country’s long-term development and human capital.
In a message commemorating the international observance dedicated to ending child labour, the First Lady stressed the need to intensify collective efforts at all levels. “We must fast-track our actions to eliminate child labour in every dimension by reinforcing our legal frameworks, empowering families economically, and ensuring access to quality education for all Nigerian children,” she said.
Citing recent statistics, she noted the alarming scale of the problem: an estimated 26.4 million children in Nigeria are currently engaged in various forms of labour, often under hazardous conditions and without the opportunity to attend school.
Globally, the International Labour Organization (ILO) reports that over 160 million children are involved in child labour, with Africa bearing the highest burden.
Senator Tinubu strongly condemned the continued existence of child labour in Nigeria, declaring it “unacceptable” that so many children remain trapped in cycles of poverty and exploitation. “Today, we raise our voices on behalf of children whose aspirations have been silenced by the cruelty of child labour,” she stated.
She urged that addressing child labour requires a coordinated, multi-sectoral response that brings together government bodies, civil society organizations, the private sector, and the general public.
Strengthening law enforcement, expanding educational opportunities, and implementing robust family support systems are, according to her, essential steps in tackling the root causes of the issue.
The theme for the 2025 global campaign — “Let’s Speed Up Efforts! End Child Labour!” — resonates deeply with the First Lady’s message. It reflects a growing international and domestic acknowledgment that urgent action is needed, especially in low- and middle-income countries where economic hardship and social vulnerability often force families to rely on child labour for survival.
Concluding her statement, Senator Tinubu appealed to all Nigerians to envision and work toward a country where every child is nurtured, educated, and given the freedom to pursue their dreams.
“Let us commit to building a Nigeria where no child is left behind — a nation where every young one has the chance to thrive and fulfil their God-given potential,” she urged.