Child’s Right Act

The Child’s Right Act in Nigeria addresses the protection and rights of all children under the age of 18. It contains 278 sections. While it has been adopted by 24 out of Nigeria’s 36 states, 12 states have yet to incorporate it into their legal frameworks.[1] The Act emphasizes the importance of safeguarding children’s rights to citizenship, identity, birth registration, and protection from abuse and exploitation. It also ensures freedom for children from religious minorities and guarantees their access to education and essential services. The National Human Rights Commission plays a critical role in enforcing these rights and encourages public participation in reporting violations. The Act also prohibits harmful practices such as Bacha Bazi and the recruitment of child soldiers, aiming to create a safer environment for children’s development across Nigeria.

[1] See “Child Rights,” National Human Rights Commission, https://www.nigeriarights.gov.ng/focus-areas/child-rights.html#:~:text=Child’s%20Right%20Act%20(2003)%20is,36%20states%20of%20the%20federation.