Relationship between Poverty and Prevalence of Underage Apprentice Child Labour in Nigeria

The work determined the level of public awareness with respect to the dangers of subjecting underage children into apprenticeship training in the South East states of Nigeria. Questionnaire assessments and personal interviews were used to gather vital data for the investigation. Ariaria Market in Aba, Main Market, Onitsha and Ogbete Market, Enugu were the study locations for which 400 copies of the questionnaires were distributed however, 61 were returned. Chi Squared statistical tool was utilised to evaluate the data leading to vital conclusions. The survey concluded that under age children subjected to labour practices with regards to apprenticeship scheme increased the likelihood of lack of educational access, negative impact to health, safety as well as social balance of the child. Psychological as well as emotional torture are also suffered by these under age children. All overwhelming consequences, the study established was as a result of lack or poverty, unemployment in addition to underemployment. A very vital recommendation is for government agencies to realise the sustenance of compulsory education in the course of the child’s early years.’