The study was conducted in Niger State, Nigeria, to examine the role of the family institution in preventing juvenile delinquency and to identify the specific familial predictors that influence delinquent behaviours among adolescents. Utilizing a cross-sectional, quantitative research design, data were collected from 482 adolescents aged 12 to 17 years across four distinct Local Government Areas (Chanchaga, Bida, Suleja, and Kontagora). Researchers employed a multi-stage survey approach, utilizing a structured, pre-validated questionnaire as the primary data collection instrument. Descriptive statistics were initially performed to establish sample characteristics, followed by a multivariable binary logistic regression to determine the predictors of juvenile delinquency. The results indicated that the average age of respondents was 15.21 ± 1.64 years; 54.4% were male, 42.1% resided in polygamous family structures, and 56.8% came from low-income households. The prevalence of self-reported delinquent behaviour was 38.6%, with theft, truancy, and substance abuse being the most prevalent offenses. Multivariable regression results revealed that adolescents from intact, monogamous families had significantly lower odds of engaging in delinquency (aOR = 0.412; 95% CI: 0.215–0.788; P < 0.01) compared to those from broken homes. Furthermore, high parental supervision (aOR = 0.284; 95% CI: 0.145–0.556; P < 0.001) and authoritative parenting styles (aOR = 0.315; 95% CI: 0.170–0.582; P < 0.001) served as strong protective factors against delinquency. Conversely, households categorized as poor significantly increased the likelihood of delinquent behavior (aOR = 2.145; 95% CI: 1.208–3.809; P < 0.05). Overall, family structure, parental supervision, disciplinary methods, and household socioeconomic status were significant predictors of juvenile delinquency. The study concludes that the erosion of traditional family dynamics in Niger State exacerbates youth restiveness. It is recommended that governmental and non-governmental social welfare agencies implement family-centered economic empowerment programs and community-based parenting workshops to fortify the family's capacity to socialize and supervise youths effectively.