A Nigerian couple has spoken out about the alarming rise in infanticide in their community, highlighting a deep-rooted issue that undermines child welfare and development across the continent. The couple, identified as Olusola and Chinwe Stevens, have become vocal advocates for child protection, revealing the dire consequences of a lack of legal and social safeguards for children in Nigeria. Their story, featured in a recent podcast, underscores the urgent need for improved governance and child protection systems in Africa.
Child safety crisis in Nigeria
Olusola and Chinwe Stevens, based in Lagos, have been working to rescue children from harmful environments and provide them with safe shelter. Their efforts have come under scrutiny as they face resistance from local authorities and cultural norms that often tolerate or ignore child abuse. The couple has documented multiple cases of infanticide, where newborns are abandoned or killed due to poverty, stigma, or lack of support for mothers. Their work has brought attention to the broader issue of child welfare in Nigeria, where over 50% of children under five live in extreme poverty, according to UNICEF data.
The couple’s advocacy has also highlighted the challenges of enforcing child protection laws in a country where legal frameworks are often weak or poorly implemented. In 2022, Nigeria’s National Agency for the Prohibition of Child Labour and Other Forms of Exploitation reported a 20% increase in child abuse cases, with infanticide remaining a hidden but severe problem. Olusola said, “The children are not safe here. We have to fight for them, even if it means going against the system.”
Broader implications for African development
The crisis in Nigeria reflects a larger challenge for African development, where child protection and early childhood development remain under-prioritised. The African Union’s Agenda 2063, which aims to improve the quality of life for all Africans, includes a focus on children’s rights and well-being. However, progress has been slow, with many countries lacking the resources or political will to implement child protection policies effectively.
Chinwe Stevens, a social worker and activist, has been a key figure in raising awareness about child safety. Her work has drawn attention from both local and international audiences, with many questioning how such issues affect not only Nigeria but the entire continent. “When children are not safe, development cannot happen,” she said. “We need to invest in education, healthcare, and governance to ensure that every child has a chance to thrive.”
Challenges and opportunities for change
Despite the challenges, there are growing calls for reform. Civil society organisations, international bodies, and local communities are increasingly collaborating to address child protection issues. In 2023, the Nigerian government launched a new initiative to strengthen child welfare services, although critics argue that more needs to be done to ensure these efforts reach the most vulnerable communities.
Experts say that improving child safety is not just a moral obligation but a key driver of long-term economic growth. A 2021 World Bank report found that investing in early childhood development can yield up to a 10% return on investment through improved education, health, and productivity. For African nations, this means rethinking how child protection is integrated into broader development strategies.
What’s next for child protection in Africa?
The case of Olusola and Chinwe Stevens highlights the urgent need for stronger legal frameworks, better enforcement, and increased public awareness. Their story also raises questions about how child protection issues in Nigeria and other African countries could impact regional cooperation and development. As South Africa and other nations grapple with similar challenges, the lessons from Nigeria could offer valuable insights into how to build more resilient and child-friendly societies.
For now, the couple continues their work, determined to create a safer future for children. “We can’t wait for change,” Olusola said. “We have to be the change.” Their efforts remind us that child safety is not just a local issue, but a critical component of Africa’s development journey. As the continent moves forward, the voices of those fighting for children’s rights will play a vital role in shaping a more equitable and sustainable future.
