Public Perception on the Motivations and Implications of the Use and Exploitation of Teenagers as Street Hawkers in Nigeria

Abstract Street hawking is a widespread practice in Nigeria, but the alarming trend of exploiting teenagers is becoming increasingly concerning. This puts teenagers at significant risk, while their exploiters show little or no regard for their well-being and development. To shed light on this issue, we conducted a comprehensive qualitative study using in-depth interviews ( IDI s) as our primary data collection method. Guided by Marxian theory and social disorganization theory, we conducted our research in five urban settlements in Lagos State: Agege, Ikorodu, Mile 12, Obalende, and Yaba. A total of ten respondents, both men and women, were selected equally using convenience non-probability sampling. Content analysis was used to analyse the gathered data. Results reveal that the failure and incompetence of the Nigerian government, widespread poverty and unemployment, the need for survival, and the resourcefulness of teenagers constitute the major motivations for the use and exploitation of teenagers as street hawkers in Nigeria. Unfortunately, these motivations come at a great cost. Teenagers engaged in street hawking often face increased exposure to risks and dangers, such as opportunities for delinquent and criminal behaviour, high dropout rates, school non-attendance, poor academic performance, infringements on children’s basic rights, and poor development of children and the country. To address this issue, the study recommends that the Nigerian government, society, families, parents, and/or guardians of exploited teenagers need to be more accountable for the well-being and development of children. This includes providing them with the necessary support, attention, and protection they require.