PROTECTION OF CHILD ABUSE VICTIMS UNDER NIGERIAN LAW: CHALLENGES AND PROSPECTS

Abstract

Child abuse is a serious global problem with far-reaching consequences for the physical, emotional, and mental well-being of children. Both international and domestic legal frameworks recognise the right of every child to grow up in a safe, healthy, supportive, and nurturing environment. However, the reality in many societies, including Nigeria, is that children are frequently subjected to abuse in places where they ought to feel most secure, such as homes, schools, families, and communities. This situation poses significant threats to children’s safety, development, dignity, and overall well-being.

This study adopts a doctrinal methodology to examine the legal frameworks established for the protection of children against abuse and to investigate the social dynamics and underlying risk factors that undermine the effectiveness of these laws. The study finds that although Nigeria possesses a relatively robust legal framework for child protection, its implementation remains ineffective due to several systemic challenges, including weak enforcement mechanisms, poverty, harmful cultural practices, prevailing social norms, inadequate child protection structures, and limited public awareness.

The paper therefore recommends a coordinated and restorative approach to child protection, encompassing early detection of abuse, prompt investigation, effective protection measures, improved prosecution of offenders, and comprehensive rehabilitation and restoration of victims.