Nigerian Children Face Alarming Rights Violations in 2026

Despite years of advocacy and policy interventions, Nigerian children remain highly vulnerable to various threats, including violence, insecurity, and abuse. A report released by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) documents widespread violations of child rights across the country from January to March 2026.

The report indicates 1,647 cases of child abandonment, 1,303 cases of custody disputes, and 1,111 cases of child labor. Additionally, 1,074 cases of child marriage were reported, highlighting the ongoing harm caused by traditional practices and economic pressures.

The report also noted 497 cases of child trafficking and 843 incidents of sexual abuse. Children like Amina Yusuf, a 10-year-old with a physical disability in Kano State, and Bello Ibrahim, a 12-year-old displaced by insecurity in Katsina State, illustrate the harsh realities faced by many.

Parents express growing fears for their children's safety, particularly regarding school kidnappings, emphasizing the urgent need for government action beyond ceremonial speeches.