Anambra Govt Reiterates Commitment to Eradicating Child Labour

By: Ukpa Ewa

Anambra State Government has reiterated its commitment to eliminating child labour through sustained policies that prioritize education, healthcare and youth development.

The pledge was made by the Special Adviser to Governor Chukwuma Soludo on Youth Empowerment Programme, Dr. Nelson Omenugha, when members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Anambra State Council paid him a courtesy visit.

Omenugha further disclosed that the Soludo administration had made significant progress towards safeguarding children rights and promoting their access to education.

According to him, Anambra State Government under Prof. Chukwuma Soludo has taken deliberate steps to make education free and compulsory at all levels across the state, understanding its role as a critical tool for empowerment and a deterrent to child exploitation.

“Every child must be in school,” he emphasized, noting that laws are in place to prosecute those who exploit or abuse children.

“The government has created both legal and executive frameworks to ensure that children are protected, educated and given opportunities to thrive.”

Omenugha stated that the 2025 World Day Against Child Labour, with the theme: “Progress is clear but there is more to do: Let’s speed up efforts,” served as a backdrop to showcase the progress recorded in Anambra State.

According to him, Official data indicates that Anambra currently has one of the lowest rates of out-of-school children in Nigeria just 0.2% , a figure credited to sustained and strategic interventions by the government. He asserted that child labour is “virtually non-existent” in the state.

While commending the government youth focused agenda, the NUJ Anambra State Council, led by its Chairman, Comrade Emeka Odogwu, PhD, used the occasion to announce Dr. Omenugha nomination for Outstanding Youth Mentor Award. The honour, to be presented in August during the Union annual press week, acknowledging effort that align with government goals in youth empowerment and mentorship.