Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
The Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 presidential election, Mr. Peter Obi, has lamented the high rate of child labour as quoted by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), that says four out of the 10 children are engaged in child labour in the country.
Writing on his X handle, the former Obi said: “On this day, we celebrate Children’s Day, I rejoice with all the Nigerian children, for whose sake, we remain firmly committed in our struggle for a new Nigeria.
“This day, which is set aside to celebrate the Nigerian child, presents us the opportunity to focus on our children, the future leaders of our society, and also reminds us of the need to invest in their growth; and support and nurture their dreams.
“Every Nigerian child deserves access to quality education, healthcare, and a safe and secure environment to live and thrive. We must, therefore, invest in these key areas of development for their sake and the future of society.
“Sadly, the challenges of child labour persist in our society today. A National Bureau of Statistics’ report states that 39.2 percent of our children are in child labour and 22.9 percent of them are involved in hazardous work. The reports further asserted that four out of every 10 children in Nigeria are trapped in child labour, therefore, putting the children and the future of society at risk.
“In tackling the challenges of child labour, we must focus on pulling more people out of poverty, and ensuring the respect of the rights of every Nigerian child.
“While encouraging the parents, guardians, teachers and benefactors, who see to the training of our children, I urge them to continue to give their best to raise responsible citizens in our nation.
“To the children, I encourage them to take their moral and educational formation. We restate our commitment to building a safe, secure and productive nation for our children to live in, fully and freely explore their potentials, the new Nigeria we are working towards. It is Possible.”
He further urged Nigerians and governments at all levels to channel their investments in the area of development for the sake of the children.