Introduction

Child’s Right and Means of Protection

Human being has general rights and obligations that is inherent irrespective of the gender age, race, culture, religion etc. These are rights that accrue to a person once the person is born.

In Nigeria, once a child is born, all legal rights accrue to said child right is limited either by a certain age or status. However, to ensure that children enjoy the rights accrued to them certain laws have been put in place for the protection of children in Nigeria.

RIGHTS OF A CHILD

• Right to name.
• Right to Inheritance.
• Right to freedom to associate.
• Medical care.
• Basic Education.
• Freedom from discrimination on the grounds of race, color, religion, respect to dignity of the child and cannot be subject to torture.
• Freedom from abuse either emotional abuse or physical such as beating, maltreatment, mental abuse, etc.
• No to child rape.

PROTECTION OF THE RIGHTS OF A CHILD

• The Child’s right Act 2003:  This the major Law or legislation that protects the rights of a child in Nigeria, establishes that the best interest of a child is paramount in any action that concerns or affects a child.
• The Constitution Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended: it provides for fundamental rights of citizens which can be enjoyed by the Nigerian child also.
• Labour Act: A child cannot be employed to work in any capacity except where he is employed by a family member on a light work, domestic, horticultural or agricultural as approved by minister of Labour. (Sections 59_61)

INSTITUTIONS THAT PROTECT THE RIGHTS OF CHILDREN

• The Nigerian government through its agency e.g. The National Human rights commission, The National agency for the prohibition of trafficking in persons and The Ministry of women affairs and social Development.
• The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF): it co leads the child protection area with the Ministry of women affairs and social development
•  Non-Governmental organizations such as Precious Rubies which empowers vulnerable female children and women through emotional, psychological vocational and financial support.

Conclusion

Child’s rights are inherent and universal, applying to all individuals regardless of age, gender, race, or culture. In Nigeria, children possess specific rights protected by laws like the Child’s Rights Act… These rights include life, health, education, protection from abuse, and freedom from discrimination. Various institutions, including government agencies and NGOs referred to as Precious Rubies Foundation.