Child Labour and Its Determinants in Informal Sector of Onitsha, Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

Child labour is a problem that affects children and the society all over the world. Children looses their youth and chance of studying, dangers their health and their future thereby providing harm to the society. This study examined child labour and its determinants in Nigeria with specific focus on informal sector of Onitsha Metropolis, Anambra state. It is a descriptive survey research. Interview schedule was used as instrument for data collection. Non-probability sampling was employed in which the sample were drawn using quota and purposive sampling technique. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics(frequencies, percentages and charts).The aim of this study is to find out what determines the labour supply decisions in onitsha metropolis and also to find out the major causative factors of child labour in Onitsha metropolis. The study finds that parents determines the labour supply decisions in the study area. The findings of this study also showed that factors such as illiteracy, Parents ignorance, low level of awareness, high cost of living and low income also contribute to child labour in the study area. The study recommended amongst others that Anti-child labour watch group should be formed to prosecute and penalize parents who engage their children into labour in Onitsha and also government should provide financial assistance to parents to increase their income.