Impact of Child Labour on Human Capital Development in Onitsha, Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

In a bid to survive the hard times in the economy, some families have resorted to giving out their children as child labourers so as to earn income for subsistence. This phenomenon has scuttled efforts aimed at human capital development thereby increasing juvenile delinquency while perpetuating the vicious cycle of poverty. This study has its theoretical framework on the theoretical model of child labour supply and examined the impact of child labour on human capital development in Nigeria with a specific focus on Onitsha Metropolis, Anambra state. It is a descriptive survey research. Non-probability sampling was employed and the sample was drawn using quota and purposive sampling techniques. The Interview schedule was used as the instrument for data collection and the data collected were analysed using the qualitative response regression model (binary probit). The study established, from the regression analysis, that child labour has a negative impact on school enrollment rate, mental well-being and physical fitness of children in Onitsha. The study recommended amongst other things, the enforcement of free compulsory education to children in Onitsha. Also, child labour education should be introduced in school curriculum to help create awareness on the rights of the child and consequences of child labour on the mental, physical and social development of children to reduce the menace of child labour.