On May 26, 2025 the Family Law and Human Rights Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association – Section on Legal Practice organized a webinar titled “The Law and Reality on Child Labour and Domestic Staffing” to commemorate Workers’ Day and Children’s Day. The webinar discussed the legal framework surrounding child labor and domestic staffing in Nigeria, highlighting the complexities and challenges in enforcing the laws on child labour and the dearth of laws on domestic staffing.
Key takeaways from the webinar include:
- The Child Rights Act 2003 defines a child as anyone under 18 and prohibits child labor, but state domestication has variations that may compromise protection.
- The Labour Act 2004 prohibits industrial work for children under 15, except in approved technical schools or institutions.
- Convention No. 182 on Worst Forms of Child Labour 1999 identifies child slavery, trafficking, and debt bondage as worst forms of child labor.
- Despite laws, socio-economic dynamics have hindered the elimination of child labor due to poverty, cultural beliefs, and lack of infrastructure.
The webinar also highlighted the need for:
- Continued advocacy by human rights organizations
- Functional sustainable welfare schemes
- Regulations for effective implementation of legal frameworks
- Implementation of ratified conventions
- Enactment of legislation regulating the informal work sector
The panelists at the webinar moderated by Chimdinma Onwuegbu were Hon. Justice Eberechi Suzzette Nyesom-Wike, J.C.A. DSSRS, The President, Nigerian Association of Family Court Judges, Magistrates and Other Practitioners, Mrs. Eliana Martins, National President/Country Vice President, International Federation of Women Lawyers, FIDA, Nigeria, Mr. Oseinoma Okpeku, Partner, The Law Crest LLP, and Mr. Olakunle Sanni, National Coordinator Child Protection Network Nigeria.
As we celebrate Children’s Day, may the insights gained at the Webinar guide us to prioritize the well-being of children and work towards ending child labor, treat domestic workers with kindness and respect, and adhere to agreements, work towards a comprehensive legal framework on regulating domestic work.
Signed: Mrs. Nancy Obinwa
Chairperson, Family Law and Human Rights Committee
NBA-Section on Legal Practice