Nigeria's Child Rights Act 2003 defines a child as under 18, prohibits child marriage, child labour, and sexual abuse of children, and makes the welfare of the child the paramount consideration in all matters affecting them.
The Child Rights Act 2003 (No. 26 of 2003) domesticates the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child in Nigeria. It is a federal law applicable in the FCT; most states have enacted their own Child Rights Laws. Key provisions: **Definition (s. 277)**: A child is any person under the age of eighteen years. **Welfare principle (s. 17)**: In every matter concerning a child, the welfare and best interests of the child shall be the primary consideration. **Parental duty (s. 14)**: Every parent or guardian has a duty to maintain the child and provide good care including medical care, education, and moral guidance. **Child marriage prohibited (s. 21)**: No person under eighteen is capable of contracting a valid marriage. A marriage contracted with a person under 18 is null and void. **Child labour prohibited (ss. 28–30)**: No child under 15 shall be employed in any capacity except in a school or approved training institution. No child shall be employed in hazardous work that interferes with education or harms health. **Sexual abuse (s. 31)**: Any sexual activity with a child is a criminal offence. **Protection from abuse (s. 11)**: Every child is entitled to protection from all forms of physical and mental violence, abuse, neglect, and exploitation.
A 16-year-old girl is withdrawn from school by her parents for an arranged marriage. Under section 21 of the Child Rights Act, the marriage is null and void. A social worker or NAPTIP officer can intervene; the girl can be supported to return to school.
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