Empowering the future of street children in Nigeria
By Blessing Raymond
Street children in Nigeria is a significant and complex issue affecting the country’s youth population and growth.Street children are children below the age of 18 who live and work on the streets without proper adult care or supervision. They often have no access to basic necessities, such as shelter, food, education and healthcare.
The increased rate of street children in Nigeria especially in the Northern part of the country is quite alarming.Presently, Nigeria as a nation with an estimate of 7million street children, rank in a third position, with Russia among countries with the highest incidence of street children coming behind India (which is described as the home for the largest population of street children worldwide, estimated at 18million). These children live on the streets being vulnerable to extreme dangers that come to them which most times, they pay the sacrifice with their dear lives.
Some common reasons that contribute to the presence of street children in Nigeria include poverty, high unemployment rates, family breakdowns, limited access to education, and even issues related to child trafficking. These children often face extreme hardships, including exploitation, violence, and abuse which can lead to trauma and depression.
Some of the efforts which can be made by the Nigerian government and various non-governmental organisations to address the issue of street children include establishing more rehabilitation centers where street children can receive food, clothing, shelter, education, and vocational training,providing educational opportunities and skills training to help street children gain knowledge. A popular saying in Nigeria has it that “children are the leaders of tomorrow “.
Also,conducting outreach programs to identify and rescue street children, offering them support and rehabilitation services, including family reunification when possible.Raising awareness about the challenges faced by street children and advocating for their rights and improved conditions.
Furthermore,strengthening social welfare services and programs to ensure that vulnerable children and families receive the support they need, such as access to healthcare and financial assistance. There is a need to prioritize the street children and give them proper care. Children on the Streets posses special talents and gifts imbedded inside of them undiscovered and can be given a chance to unlock their potentials.
More comprehensive strategies can be developed by the government such as provision of resources needed to address the root causes, provide sustainable solutions, and protect the rights and well-being of these marginalised children. By doing so,the children are not just taken out of the streets but will be given a chance to start a new life and have a bright future. It should also be a collective responsibility for everyone in the society to give a helping hand in getting these children out of the streets.
Blessing Raymond, University of Maiduguri, Department of Mass Communication.
This is beautiful
I wish the government will put effort to dealing with this issue