In a bid to tackle the prevalence of child labor and forced labor at the state and local levels, the Federal Government has urged state governors to take charge of the fight.
Speaking at the official launch of the Nigeria Child Labor and Forced Labor Survey Report 2022 in Abuja, the Minister of Labor and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, emphasized the importance of state-level involvement and assured continued federal support in policy formulation and implementation.
Conducted in April 2022, the survey aimed to enhance information on forced labor and child labor through data collection. This data will play a crucial role in shaping policy directions and interventions for the eradication of child labor and forced labor in Nigeria.
Notable efforts by the Nigerian government to combat child labor and forced labor include ratifying key International Labor Organization conventions, policy reviews, establishment of steering committees, and participation in international alliances like Alliance 8.7.
Addressing global statistics indicating high numbers of children involved in child labor and adults and children in forced labor, Onyejeocha stressed the need for state and local governments to take proactive measures against this issue.
Encouraging collective action and collaboration among stakeholders to drive effective policy actions, the minister underscored Nigeria’s commitment to the 2030 Agenda and the goal of achieving SDG 8.7 for sustainable economic growth and decent work opportunities for all.
Highlighting the urgency to act swiftly and decisively to eliminate child and forced labor within the stipulated time frame, Onyejeocha urged stakeholders at all levels to intensify efforts and cooperation for a successful outcome.
She emphasized the close connection between ending child labor and forced labor and promoting sustainable economic growth and decent employment opportunities for all, as outlined in Sustainable Development Goal 8.