Child marriage in Nigeria

Child marriage in Nigeria refers to the formal marriage or informal union of a child under the age of 18. This practice is prevalent in Nigeria, particularly in the northern regions, and is influenced by cultural, religious, and economic factors.

Prevalence

Child marriage is a significant issue in Nigeria, with the country having one of the highest rates of child marriage in the world. According to the UNICEF, approximately 44% of girls in Nigeria are married before their 18th birthday, and 18% are married before the age of 15. The prevalence of child marriage varies significantly across different regions, with the highest rates found in the northern states.

Causes

Several factors contribute to the high rates of child marriage in Nigeria:

• Cultural and Religious Beliefs: In many communities, child marriage is seen as a traditional practice that is deeply rooted in cultural and religious beliefs. It is often viewed as a way to preserve family honor and ensure that girls are married while they are still considered "pure."

• Poverty: Economic hardship is a major driver of child marriage. Families living in poverty may see marrying off their daughters as a way to reduce their financial burden and secure a dowry.

• Lack of Education: Limited access to education for girls increases the likelihood of child marriage. When girls are not in school, they are more likely to be married off at a young age.

Consequences

Child marriage has severe consequences for the health, education, and well-being of girls:

• Health Risks: Child brides are at a higher risk of experiencing complications during pregnancy and childbirth, which can lead to maternal and infant mortality. They are also more vulnerable to domestic violence and HIV/AIDS.

• Educational Impact: Girls who marry early are often forced to drop out of school, limiting their educational and economic opportunities.

• Cycle of Poverty: Child marriage perpetuates a cycle of poverty, as girls who marry young are less likely to be educated and more likely to have larger families, which can strain limited resources.

Legal Framework

Nigeria has laws in place to combat child marriage, but enforcement is inconsistent. The Child Rights Act of 2003 sets the minimum age of marriage at 18, but not all states have adopted this law. Customary and religious laws often take precedence over national legislation, particularly in the northern regions.

Efforts to Combat Child Marriage

Various organizations and initiatives are working to end child marriage in Nigeria:

• Government Initiatives: The Nigerian government has launched campaigns to raise awareness about the negative impacts of child marriage and to promote girls' education.

• Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): NGOs such as Girls Not Brides and the UNFPA are actively involved in advocacy and community engagement to change attitudes towards child marriage.

• International Support: International bodies like UNICEF and the WHO provide support and resources to combat child marriage and improve girls' access to education and healthcare.

Also see

• Child marriage
• Women's rights in Nigeria
• Education in Nigeria
• Human rights in Nigeria