Why Nigerian parents losing children to UK authorities

Child protection professionals have raised concerns over Nigerian parents losing custody of their children in the United Kingdom due to violations of British child protection guidelines.

According to The Punch, the Association of Nigerian Social Workers in the UK urged the Nigerian High Commission to support families struggling with cultural differences in parenting.

The association’s president, Barizoge Neenwi, emphasised education, awareness and early intervention to prevent family separations.

“They need the support of the Nigerian High Commission to step in to protect, safeguard or intervene for their citizens,” Neenwi stated.

Secretary-General Kemi Aare warned that corporal punishment could trigger intervention by British authorities.

“In the United Kingdom, physical punishment that causes injury or raises safeguarding concerns can be regarded as physical abuse and may lead to intervention from children’s services.”

Aare explained that child removal is generally considered a last resort when authorities identify significant risks of harm.

The association called for stronger cooperation between social workers and Nigerian diplomatic officials.