ABSTRACT
This chapter examines contemporary social work in Nigeria focusing on its quest for professional recognition. Following a review of processes through which professions gain recognition and legitimacy, it introduces an R-lexicon – regulation, relevance, recognition, representation, relational connections, rights, and research – pointing to key strategies to advance the Nigerian profession's interests. It ends with a brief overview of the literature pertaining to social work practice showing the profession's minimal presence in several long-established contexts, such as corrections, juvenile justice, and child protection. With the goal of legitimation now achieved, the chapter ends with a call to social workers to build bridges and establish strong networks to project a united front in the interests of the future development of the profession.
