MAJOR RISKS FACED BY STREET KIDS IN UYO METROPOLIS, AKWA IBOM STATE, NIGERIA

The street kids' phenomenon is a worldwide social and environmentalmenace relating to the faulty upbringing, neglect and poor welfare forcertain groups of children all around the world. This research assessedthe major risks facing street kids in the Uyo metropolis in Akwa IbomState, Nigeria. The Social Constructivism theory as explained by LevVygotsky was adopted as a theoretical framework. A survey researchdesign was adopted for the study. This study was conducted in UyoMetropolis, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The sample size considered for thestudy through Taro Yamane's formula was 150, but a total of 120questionnaires were returned from the field which was the instrument fordata collection. Data was analysed using the Pearson Product MomentCorrelation (PPMC) denoted by 'r'. The findings of the study show thatStreet kids dwell in an environment of hostility, they are neglected bymembers of the public, they often lack proper parental guidance, the streetkids are most especially harmed by harsh physical conditions, violenceand harassment, exploitation, absorption into criminal networks anddenial to education that will equip them to have a better life. Based onfindings, researchers among others recommended that government needto prioritize the development and implementation of comprehensivesocial welfare programs aimed at addressing the root causes of childvulnerability. This includes initiatives to alleviate poverty, provide accessto education, healthcare, and affordable housing and support families incrisis.