Psychosocial Implications of COVID-19 on Children in Nigeria

Abstract

There has been a plethora of research since the emergence of COVID-19 around the world but several of these studies have not focused on the psychosocial implication of the novel Coronavirus on children in Nigeria. Though the psychosocial impact of the virus is huge, there is paucity of literature addressing the needs of the Nigerian children during the pandemic. The paper explored the psychosocial implications (health, poverty issues, safety needs and learning) of COVID-19 on children in Nigeria. The study recommends the expansion of social assistance for children of families in extreme poverty, and there is a need to adapt standard physical distancing protocols to reflect the characteristics of children in different settings. Also, the Government of Nigeria should prioritize child-centred services. Training parents and caregivers on how to talk to their children about the pandemic, managing their mental health and providing tools to help children’s learning will be crucial.