Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has urged families, community leaders, policymakers and other stakeholders to strengthen efforts to end child marriage and safeguard the rights of girls across the country.
Tinubu made the appeal in a message marking the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child, observed on October 11, under the theme, “End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights.”
She stressed that every girl should have the opportunity to receive an education, develop her abilities and pursue her aspirations without facing discrimination, violence or harmful cultural practices.
The First Lady called on stakeholders to prioritise girls’ rights by investing in education, healthcare and their overall well-being, noting that such support would help create an environment where they can grow and reach their full potential.
According to her, empowering girls has benefits beyond the individual, contributing to stronger families, healthier communities and national development.
“When girls thrive, families prosper, communities grow stronger, and nations advance,” she said.
Tinubu also emphasised the need for collective responsibility in protecting girls from harmful practices, including child marriage, and ensuring they have equal opportunities to shape their futures.
The International Day of the Girl Child is observed annually to raise awareness of issues affecting girls, promote their rights and encourage action to improve access to education, healthcare, protection and other opportunities.
