The President of the Read and Earn Federation for United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO REF), Abdulsalami Ladigbolu-Oranmiyan, has urged President chilBola Tinubu to step up efforts to eliminate child labour in Nigeria, calling it a pressing moral and national responsibility.
In a statement issued to mark both the International Day Against Child Labour and Nigeria’s Democracy Day, Ladigbolu-Oranmiyan emphasised that the protection of children must be central to the President’s Renewed Hope vision, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN-SDG)—particularly Goal 8.7, which calls for the global abolition of child labour.
He stressed that child labour deprives millions of children of their right to education, safety, and a dignified life, and that its persistence undermines Nigeria’s social and economic progress.
“For Nigeria, this day holds even greater significance as it coincides with Democracy Day, a powerful reminder that true democracy must extend beyond political structures to ensure freedom, dignity, and opportunity for every citizen, especially the children who hold the key to our shared future.”
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Ladigbolu-Oranmiyan called on the government to strengthen policies that protect children, invest in education, and expand social safety nets to prevent vulnerable families from resorting to child labour as a survival strategy.
He also highlighted the importance of collaboration between government agencies, international organisations, non-profits, and local communities to address the root causes of child labour and prioritise long-term solutions.
“To achieve lasting impact, Nigeria must deepen engagement with genuine stakeholders, including United Nations agencies, global educational advocates, humanitarian organisations, and grassroots changemakers, who prioritise child protection and education over commercial interests.
According to him, while progress has been made, much remains to be done. He urged all sectors—public and private—to renew their commitment to a future where every Nigerian child has access to quality education, healthcare, and the opportunity to reach their full potential.
“As we reflect on Democracy Day, let us recognise that democracy must stand as a beacon of justice and equality, ensuring that freedom is not limited to political rights but extends to the very foundation of childhood itself,” he added.
“The world is watching, and together, we must forge a path where children are protected, nations are strengthened, and the promise of a better tomorrow is fulfilled.” construct news story using the proposed using British language.
Ladigbolu-Oranmiyan’s message comes amid growing concerns over the prevalence of child labour in Nigeria and increasing calls for the government to intensify its efforts to combat the issue in line with international standards.
