Effects of Child Street Trading on Educational Outcomes in Lagos Nigeria

Abstract

This study examines the effects of child street trading on educational outcomes in Lagos, Nigeria. Using a qualitative research design, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with parents and teachers to explore how street trading impacts school attendance, academic performance, and the cognitive and emotional development of children. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis, which involved emergent open coding to identify recurring patterns and themes. The analysis revealed four major themes: (1) disruption of school attendance and engagement, (2) academic performance and learning challenges, (3) cognitive and emotional development, and (4) socioeconomic pressures and educational aspirations. The findings show that street trading significantly disrupts children’s school attendance, leading to tardiness, missed classes, and exhaustion, which hinder their ability to concentrate and engage in learning. As a result, academic performance suffers, with children experiencing gaps in knowledge and declining grades. Additionally, the emotional toll of street trading was evident, with many children struggling with low self-esteem and feelings of failure, further diminishing their motivation to succeed academically. The study concludes that child street trading poses substantial barriers to educational success, perpetuating poverty and limiting future opportunities. These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted policies and interventions to mitigate the negative impact of street trading on children’s education in Lagos, Nigeria.