THE LAWS AGAINST CHILD MARRIAGE IN NIGERIA: PROSPECT AND CHALLENGES

ABSTRACT Child marriage is most commonly defined as the marriage of a person below the age of 18.This is also the position under Section 21 of the Child’s Rights Act 2003 in Nigeria as it criminalises marriage below 18. Also, the definition implies that child marriage involves male and female persons. Thus, boys can be parties to child marriage in the same way girls are married as children, although girls are much more affected than the boys. The aim of this study is to identify the reasons behind child marriage in Nigeria, to identify how it affects the future and entire well-being of the girl, to analyze the laws against child marriage etc. The use of doctrinal research methodology was used which involves primary and secondary sources. Findings in this research shows that religion, poverty, illiteracy and culture are some of the reasons child marriage is still in existence especially in the North. However Child marriage can be eliminated if the government and authorities responsible all work together. In a nutshell child marriage has negative impact on the right of girls to health, life, education , personal integrity and dignity. This research concludes by making vital and important recommendations. Among others it recommended thus, there should be a revaluation of cultural norms, beliefs and the eradication of barbaric practices within our cultures and religions, the truth here is that there should be evolution of laws, to suit the present existence of citizens of the society, there should be a vigorous implementation of the laws and severe sanctions, to anyone who goes against the law. The Government must be willing and ready to put in place policies that will protect the girl child and also ensure it deals with anyone/ group who abuse such policies.