Investigating the Prevalence of Child Labour and Child Trafficking in Gombe Local Government Area, Gombe State

This study examines the prevalence of child labour and child trafficking in the Gombe Local Government Area (LGA) of Gombe State, Nigeria, employing a survey research design. Utilising a structured questionnaire, data were collected from 379 residents out of a target population of 551,000 in Gombe LGA, yielding a high response rate of 69%. The methodology incorporated both quantitative and qualitative approaches, with data analysed using frequency counts, simple percentages, and correlation analysis. A binary logistic model, derived from established frameworks, was specified to assess the influence of variables like household income, poverty, household size, and unemployment on child labour and trafficking. The findings indicate a substantial prevalence of child labour, with 74.67% of respondents reporting children engaged in work, and 56.20% having experienced child trafficking within their households. A majority of respondents (41.42%) believe both male and female children are affected. Poverty was identified as the leading cause by 38.79% of respondents, followed by unemployment (21.90%), and a combination of factors (25.33%). The demographic profile of respondents showed a slight majority of females (53.56%) and a significant concentration of middle-aged adults (54.35% aged 31-40). Household incomes were predominantly low, with 43.27% earning less than ₦5,000 and 47% earning between ₦5,000 and ₦50,000 per month. The study highlights the urgent need for interventions addressing socio-economic challenges to mitigate child exploitation in the region.