Nigeria

In Nigeria, safeguarding frameworks for children and adults are supported by a combination of national legislation, traditional norms, and emerging social support structures. The Child Rights Act (2003) provides the legal foundation for protecting children from abuse, neglect, and exploitation, though its implementation varies by state, with some northern regions yet to fully domesticate the law. For adults—particularly women, the elderly, and people with disabilities—protection is provided through laws such as the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act (2015). Despite these frameworks, safeguarding issues such as child marriage, domestic violence, and underreporting of abuse remain prevalent, often due to cultural norms, stigma, or distrust in formal institutions. Nigerian students in the UK may have varying levels of exposure to structured safeguarding systems and may be hesitant to raise concerns due to fears of stigma, a preference for resolving issues within the family, or unfamiliarity with institutional procedures.

Mental health in Nigeria is increasingly recognised as a significant public health issue, especially among young people, yet stigma and limited access to services remain major barriers. Mental illness is often misunderstood, and in some communities, it is attributed to spiritual or moral causes. Many individuals seek help from religious leaders or traditional healers before approaching mental health professionals. While public awareness is growing and more NGOs and universities are promoting mental wellbeing, there remains a shortage of trained professionals, and mental health is not yet widely integrated into routine healthcare. Nigerian students in the UK may be aware of mental health issues but reluctant to seek help due to concerns about confidentiality, fear of judgment, or a belief that problems should be handled privately or with faith-based support. UK university professionals can support these students by offering culturally sensitive, non-judgmental, and easily accessible mental health services, while framing them as tools for academic performance, personal growth, and resilience. Providing multiple entry points—such as peer-led programmes, drop-in sessions, and faith-sensitive approaches—can help students feel safe and empowered to access support.