Oluremi Tinubu Decries Rising Cases of Child Labour in Nigeria
As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to commemorate World Against Child Labour Day 2025 on June 12, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu has expressed deep concern over the persistent child labour practices across the country.
In a heartfelt personal statement, the First Lady condemned the ongoing exploitation of children and called for urgent, coordinated efforts to protect their rights and future.
“Today, we raise our voices for millions of children whose dreams are stolen by the harsh reality of child labour,” she stated.
“Let’s Speed Up Efforts! End Child Labour!” – 2025 Theme
A Call to Action from the First Lady
Speaking on this year’s theme, “Let’s Speed Up Efforts! End Child Labour!”, Senator Tinubu urged all stakeholders government agencies, civil society, and families—to unite in tackling the issue from all angles.
She emphasized that child labour deprives children of education, emotional growth, and the opportunity to reach their full potential.
“It is unacceptable that children are still forced to work instead of going to school, pursuing their dreams and learning how to grow into productive members of society,” she said.
Strengthening Laws and Supporting Families
Legislative Reform and Investment in Education
Senator Tinubu called for the strengthening of existing laws to decisively punish those who exploit children. She also advocated for increased investment in quality education and robust social support systems for vulnerable families.
“Let us speed up efforts to end child labour in all ramifications by strengthening our laws, supporting families, and investing in quality education for every child,” she urged.
Vision for Nigeria’s Children
A Nation Where Every Child Can Dream
Senator Tinubu concluded her statement with a hopeful message, envisioning a Nigeria where every child is free to thrive, dream, and reach their God-given potential.
“I urge us to work towards building a country where every child is free to thrive, dream, and reach their God-given potential. God bless our precious children!”
About World Against Child Labour Day
Celebrated annually on June 12, World Against Child Labour Day highlights the global fight against child labour and promotes awareness of children’s rights. The 2025 theme calls for intensified efforts to eliminate all forms of child labour by 2025, in line with global development goals.
