Lagos State Government has announced plans to prohibit children from roaming or engaging in street trading during school hours as part of a broader initiative to tackle the growing problem of out-of-school children and improve access to education.
The policy, which will be implemented through relevant enforcement agencies and education authorities, is aimed at ensuring that school-age children remain in classrooms during learning hours rather than engaging in street hawking or other informal activities.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu said the measure forms part of the state’s wider education reform agenda designed to strengthen compulsory education and safeguard children from the dangers associated with street life.
According to the governor, the government is also launching a $25 million education intervention fund to support programmes targeted at vulnerable children, improve learning facilities and expand access to quality education across the state.
Sanwo-Olu noted that the fund would be deployed to finance initiatives such as scholarships, school rehabilitation projects, and programmes aimed at reintegrating street children and other disadvantaged youths back into formal education.
He expressed concern over the rising number of children found on the streets during school hours, describing the trend as a major threat to the future of the state and the country at large.
“We cannot allow our children to lose their future to street trading and child labour. Every child deserves the opportunity to learn and develop their potential in a safe school environment,” the governor said.
Education stakeholders have long warned that millions of Nigerian children remain out of school, a situation that has serious implications for national development and security. Recent estimates suggest that Nigeria has one of the highest numbers of out-of-school children globally, prompting governments and organisations to intensify efforts to return children to classrooms.
The Lagos government said the new enforcement strategy would involve collaboration between local authorities, school administrators, community leaders and parents to ensure that children are not found roaming the streets during official school hours.
Officials also explained that the policy is intended to protect children from the risks associated with street hawking, including accidents, exploitation and exposure to criminal activities.
Experts say that children who spend long hours on the streets are more vulnerable to poverty cycles, health hazards and limited educational opportunities.
The state government therefore urged parents and guardians to support the initiative by ensuring that their children attend school regularly.
Authorities further assured that the new education fund would prioritise programmes that support low-income families and provide resources needed to keep children in school.
The initiative, according to officials, represents another step in Lagos’ ongoing efforts to strengthen its education sector and address the social challenges associated with child labour and street life.
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