Challenges Still Facing the Domestication and Implementation of Key Provisions of Nigeria’s Child Rights Act of 2003

Abstract

ABSTRACT Children make up about 43 per cent of Nigeria’s population, and it has been pointed out that they are often described as the precious products of divine providence. Unfortunately they are subjected to all forms of abuse and neglect, such as child prostitution, trafficking and forced labour, and therefore need serious protection in society. The Child Rights Act of 2003 was passed more than a decade ago to solve this problem. Unfortunately, most Nigerian children are still not enjoying some or all of the benefits of the Act. This article therefore seeks to examine the challenges still surrounding the domestication and implementation of its key provisions, mainly in Northern states, but also in other states where it is already domesticated, but not fully implemented. The article employs doctrinal and content analysis of relevant literature, and recommends massive sensitisation, awareness creation, and effective adaptation of the law by every Nigerian state.