In Nigeria, Children’s Day is observed on May 27, while the United Nations celebrates World Children’s Day annually on November 20.
As stated on un.org/en/observances, “World Children’s Day offers each of us an inspirational entry point to advocate, promote, and celebrate children’s rights, translating into dialogues and actions that will build a better world for children.”
Many children are born into difficult circumstances like poverty, war, abuse, neglect, gender discrimination, etc.
Children born out of wedlock, that is, to parents who are not lawfully married, are called “illegitimate children”.
It could be said that they are also born into difficult circumstances.
Many times, their hardships go unnoticed.
Historically, children born of wedlock suffered many disadvantages.
Some countries now have laws in place that aim to grant equal rights to both legitimate and illegitimate children. Nigeria is one of such countries.
The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Section 42(2) provides that “no citizen of Nigeria shall be subjected to any disability or deprivation merely because of the circumstances of his birth.”
It is assumed that the main challenges faced by non-marital children border on inheritance or succession.
There is the possibility of seeking redress through the legal system.
Sadly, not everyone can afford it.
Children born out of wedlock sometimes suffer neglect, abuse and exclusion from their families and immediate communities.
The stigma around illegitimacy could lead to serious mental and emotional issues.
In Nigeria and several other countries, marriage remains a vital institution for both legal, religious, and cultural reasons.
Custom and religion are significant and so determine how children born out of wedlock are treated.
The importance of equal treatment for all citizens is enshrined in the Nigerian constitution.
However, the fact that the stigma around illegitimacy still exists means it has not been eliminated.
Families and the larger communities should remember that the child is being punished for their parents’ actions.
The more mentally healthy people there are, the better for society.
As stated on un.org/en/observances, “World Children’s Day offers each of us an inspirational entry point to advocate, promote, and celebrate children’s rights, translating into dialogues and actions that will build a better world for children.”
The day is dedicated to promoting the welfare of children.
Family members and a child’s immediate community should be their first advocates.
A shift in the mindset and behaviour changes is essential.
The power of acceptance and acknowledgement rests with the family.
To promote the welfare of children, society should not be selective.
The well-being and welfare of all children matter, and we must advocate for them all.