Social Analysis of Child Labor in Nasarawa State, Nigeria

Child labor remains a widespread issue in many societies, including Nigeria, where, despite an apparent level of awareness, numerous children must still endure this harsh reality. This study aims to assess and understand the social conditions, experiences, educational status, and challenges child laborers encounter, particularly in Lafia, Nasarawa State. It also explores the relationship between parents’ economic status and the labor demands placed on children. Purposive sampling was used to select 50 child laborers for the interviews. The results show that 46% of the children interviewed constantly worry about their lives being at risk, while 30% express similar concerns occasionally. The study identifies crucial factors that perpetuate child labor, such as the economic and social circumstances of the parents, highlighting issues like household poverty, parental illiteracy, and inadequate social protection. The findings reveal that most children do not receive proper care, support, or education. The results emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive policy interventions focused on poverty alleviation, improving access to education, and protecting children. The study advocates the involvement of government agencies in creating a robust structural framework that safeguards the rights of child laborers in society and protects them from abuse. Results from the research, asserts that social and cultural factors significantly contribute to the prevalence of child labor in Lafia, Nasarawa state.