Overview

The Child's Right Act is a comprehensive Nigerian legislation that establishes the legal framework for the protection and welfare of children. It is divided into several parts, beginning with the paramountcy of the best interest of a child in all actions (Part I) and detailing the rights and responsibilities of children (Part II), including rights to survival, development, name, association, thought, privacy, movement, non-discrimination, dignity, leisure, health, parental care, education, special protection, and contractual rights, as well as responsibilities of children and parents. Part III focuses on protecting children's rights by prohibiting child marriage and betrothal, tattoos, exposure to narcotics, criminal activities, abduction, exploitative labor, buying/selling for begging or prostitution, unlawful sexual intercourse, sexual abuse, recruitment into armed forces, and harmful publications, with penalties and jurisdictional provisions. Part IV addresses child protection mechanisms such as child assessment orders, emergency protection orders, police protection, state investigations, and refuge for children at risk. Part V deals with children in need of care and protection, allowing certain persons to bring such children before a court and enabling orders when parents cannot exercise control. Part VI covers care and supervision orders, including their duration, effect, parental contacts, duties of supervisors, education supervision orders, interim orders, and discharge or variation. The Act aims to safeguard children's rights and ensure their well-being.

Download