“Progress is clear, but there’s more to do: lets speed up efforts”
The Paediatric Association of Nigeria (PAN) joins the global community to draw urgent attention to the persistent challenge of child labour. Globally, over 138 million children are engaged in one form of child labour or another. One in every 10 children are involved in conditions deemed harmful, exploitative, or illegal. Sub-Saharan Africa bears the heaviest burden, accounting for two-thirds of all children involved in child labour.

Child labour refers to work that is mentally, physically, socially, or morally dangerous and harmful to children. It deprives them of their childhood, interferes with their education, and threatens their health and overall development. The root causes of child labour include: poverty, unemployment, conflicts, weak law enforcement, and lack of access to quality education.

As Paediatricians, we are committed to advocating for policies and actions that protect every Nigerian child. We call on the Government, civil societies, community leaders, faith-based institutions, and caregivers to rise in defence of our children. The Child Rights Act must be implemented in all states and enforced without compromise!

Today, as we mark the World Day Against Child Labour Day 2025, we renew our call to end all forms of child labour. Every child deserves a safe, healthy, and nurturing environment to grow, learn, and achieve their full potential.

There is so much more to do! Lets speed up our efforts! Protect the child! End child labour!

#Paediatricassociationofnigeria
#Worlddayagainstchildlabour2025
#Letsspeedupourefforts
#Endchildlabour