Volume 14, 2025
A Systematic Profiling of Child Labour in Nigeria: The Forms, Causes and Way Forward
Grace Omolade, ADESOKAN, Ayobami Gideon, ADELEKE & Ifeoluwa Samuel, OLUYIMIDE
Abstract
Forced labour, particularly child labour, is a rarely studied issue in Nigeria using secondary data collection
methods. This study aims to identify the prevalent forms of child labour in Nigeria and their implications for
children's learning and social life. It also investigates the leading causes of child labour and their impacts on
children's holistic development through a systematic review of existing studies.The research utilized secondary
data from Scorpius, Research Gate, ScienceDirect, and PubMed. Various academic sources, including peerreviewed journals, theses, educational websites, textbooks, and educational books, were examined. An
interpretive research philosophy was adopted to allow for extensive illustration and critical discussion of
ndings. Thematic analysis was conducted by sorting relevant data and coding it into themes for
discussion.Prominent forms of child labour reported include street children, those with intellectual disabilities,
unpaid domestic workers, and migrant children involved in sexual work. Key causes identied are poverty,
illiteracy, household deprivation, and regional factors. The study concludes with recommendations for societal
vigilance against child abuse by parents. By raising awareness and implementing protective measures, the
practice of child labour in Nigeria can be addressed more effectively.
Keywords
Child Labour, Exploration, Children, Sexual Workers
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