INT’L DAY AGAINST CHILD LABOR: STAKEHOLDERS FLAY CHILD LABOUR

By Rotmwa Kassam Paulina

“Every child deserves a future!” This was the strong stance taken by the Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission (PSGEOC) as the state joined the global community to observe the 2025 International Day Against Child Labour.

This year’s theme, “Progress is clear, but there’s more to do: Let’s speed up efforts,” highlighted the alarming persistence of child labour in Plateau communities and called for immediate, collective, and sustained action to protect children’s rights.

The commemorative event took place at the Villa Grand Hotel in Jos and brought together a diverse coalition of stakeholders, including government officials, gender advocates, journalists, educators, and civil society organizations.

Their aim was to raise awareness and reinforce the commitment to ending child labour in all its forms across Plateau State.

In her keynote address, Barr. Olivia Dazyam, acting Chairperson of PSGEOC, condemned the increasing incidents of child abuse, exploitation, and neglect that hinder children’s growth and development in the state.

“Child labour denies children their right to education, safety, and a dignified childhood. It is time we, as a society, take a firm stand to end mistreatment in our homes, schools, farms, markets, and streets,” she declared.

Barr. Dazyam emphasized the Commission’s commitment to promoting inclusive education, strengthening child protection mechanisms, and fostering collaboration with communities and stakeholders to achieve lasting change.

“To parents: let children be children — send them to school, not to work. To schools: identify and support vulnerable children. To communities: speak out, report abuse, and protect our children,” she admonished.

Dazyam praised the media for its role in highlighting gender issues and called for more inclusive storytelling that reflects the lived experiences of women, girls, and vulnerable children.

In a goodwill message, Hon. Caroline Dafur, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, encouraged children to understand their rights and speak up when those rights are denied.

She also reminded them of the importance of being respectful and obedient to their parents, highlighting the value of family unity and communication.

The event featured enlightening presentations from experts and advocates working in areas such as child rights, labour regulation, and education.

Barr. Naankus Fyaktu, Chairperson of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), Plateau State, delivered a detailed exposition on the Rights of the Nigerian Child under National Laws.

She cited constitutional protections and provisions under the Child Rights Act, emphasizing that child labour is not only a societal issue but also a legal violation.

Mrs. Noro Peter Shamaki from the Federal Ministry of Labour presented a sobering analysis titled “The Challenges of Child Labour in Nigeria: The Plateau State Case Study.”

Mrs. Shamaki noted that agricultural labour, street hawking, and domestic servitude remain the dominant forms of child labour in Plateau communities and stressed the need for targeted interventions to address poverty, illiteracy, and harmful traditional practices.

Kateline Rahab Davou Nyango, Director of Schools, Plateau State Ministry of Education, spoke about “The Impact of Extreme Punishment on Students,” revealed how punitive environments can lead children to drop out and enter the labour market.

She advocated for child-friendly disciplinary approaches and psychosocial support systems in schools.

At the end of the event participants reiterated the commitment towards the protection every child’s right to a dignified and productive life.

The Plateau State Gender and Equal Opportunities Commission reaffirmed its commitment to working with parents, schools, communities, and the media to ensure no child is left behind in the fight against labour, abuse, and exploitation.

The International Day Against Child Labour is observed annually on June 12 to raise awareness and encourage action to eliminate child labour worldwide.

Plateau State’s observance continues to demonstrate that while progress is being made, a collective and accelerated effort is essential.

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