Nigerian parents living in the United Kingdom are at risk of losing custody of their children over parenting practices that may violate British child protection guidelines, social workers have warned.
The Association of Nigerian Social Workers in the UK has called for increased support, public education and early intervention to help Nigerian families understand the country’s child safeguarding laws and parenting expectations.
The association also urged the Nigerian High Commission in the UK to collaborate with qualified social workers to protect Nigerian children and assist families facing child welfare concerns.
Speaking to Diaspora Tales, the association’s President, Barizoge Neenwi, said many Nigerian communities need guidance in navigating cultural differences and the UK’s approach to child upbringing.
Neenwi explained that some parents, particularly those working multiple jobs to survive, may lack sufficient awareness of the support available through social care services.
“They need to be educated, enlightened, and supported and early intervention is the key,” she said, adding that Nigerians with relevant expertise could work with the High Commission to assist affected families.
She stressed the need for the Nigerian diplomatic mission to engage with social care institutions and provide timely assistance to citizens experiencing difficulties with child protection authorities.
Corporal Punishment Raises Child Protection Concerns
The association’s Secretary-General, Kemi Aare, warned that physical punishment of children by Nigerian parents or guardians could trigger intervention by UK children’s services, particularly where it causes injury or raises safeguarding concerns.
Aare explained that some parenting practices accepted in certain cultural settings may be viewed differently under British legislation and child protection standards.
She noted that Nigerian migrant families may face challenges understanding the country’s legal framework, cultural expectations and safeguarding procedures.
According to her, other factors that can contribute to family difficulties include domestic conflicts, parental stress, mental health challenges, housing problems and inadequate family or community support networks.
However, Aare emphasised that the UK’s child protection system is intended to safeguard children while also supporting families.
She explained that removing a child from parental care is generally treated as a last resort when professionals believe the child faces significant harm and other options have been explored.
Social Workers Advocate Early Intervention
The association maintained that better access to information, professional guidance and community support could help prevent avoidable family crises.
It encouraged Nigerian parents to familiarise themselves with UK child protection requirements and seek assistance when dealing with concerns raised by schools, social workers or other safeguarding professionals.
The call also highlights the importance of communication between migrant communities, social care agencies and Nigerian diplomatic authorities in helping families understand their responsibilities and available support services.
Previous Case Highlights Challenges Facing Nigerian Families
The warning comes amid reports of Nigerian families facing child custody disputes and child protection interventions in the UK.
In January 2025, a Nigerian mother living in Durham, England, reportedly appealed to the Nigerian High Commission and the Federal Government after her children were taken into care.
The woman said her husband was arrested on December 3, 2024, following an allegation made by their daughter to school authorities.
She claimed that although the girl later withdrew the allegation, social services took the children into care on December 12.
The reported case renewed concerns among some Nigerian families about navigating child protection investigations and accessing appropriate support.
The circumstances of individual cases differ, and child protection decisions are based on the specific evidence and safeguarding concerns involved.
The Association of Nigerian Social Workers in the UK comprises qualified professionals committed to supporting the Nigerian community while promoting professional standards and child safeguarding.
The group’s appeal underscores the need for Nigerian parents in Britain to understand local child protection rules, seek professional advice early and access available family support services before difficulties escalate.
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