Are we encouraging child slavery by hiring domestic helpers?

Many working class couples in Nigeria find it handy to have a domestic helper at home. This house help is usually in the form of a male or female young adult (under 18), or even the child of a relative or distant relative. Depending on the couple, this child might not get an education and/or may not be paid a wage. Is this child slavery?

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The International Labor Organization defines child labor as work that deprives children of their childhood, their potential and their dignity. It further states that "not all work done by children should be classified as child labor. Children's or adolescents' participation in work that does not affect their health and personal development or interfere with their schooling is described as positive".

Going by this definition, it is without a doubt that there are many child laborers in Nigeria. These kids might get a wage no matter how little in exchange for domestic help. Child slaves on the other hand do not have this privilege. Living in Nigeria, it was not rare to see house helps in rags with their lavishly dressed "madams" in the market or around town. We've all heard the horror stories of children abused by their employers, and we know that these are not just rumors.

In an ideal world, a Nigerian family that needed help would be willing to pay a wage, enroll him or her in school and show much needed compassion. The family would also discipline the help when he/she does wrong with love and not anger.

Nigeria, let's get it right.