The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to ending child marriage and promoting the rights, welfare and development of the girl-child in Nigeria.
The Honourable Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, gave this assurance while delivering an address to commemorate the 2026 International Day of the Girl-Child, themed “End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights.” He stressed the importance of protecting every girl-child and creating opportunities for her to fulfil her potential and achieve her aspirations.
Comrade Olawande described the occasion as an opportunity to reflect on the significance of the International Day of the Girl-Child, noting that every child deserves the opportunity to live a meaningful and purposeful life.
According to the Minister, this year’s theme underscores the urgent need to end child marriage and invest in the rights, well-being and future of every girl. He emphasised that girls must be protected, encouraged and empowered to become purposeful and productive members of society.
The Minister further stressed that ending child marriage is a collective responsibility requiring the concerted efforts of government, families, communities and other stakeholders.
He noted that safeguarding the rights of the girl-child and ensuring access to quality education, adequate support and equal opportunities are essential to enabling girls to realise their full potential.
He therefore called on all relevant stakeholders to intensify efforts to protect the girl-child from child marriage and other harmful practices while ensuring that every girl has the freedom, support and opportunity to shape her future.
The Minister also congratulated Medinat Hussein Tangiwa, identified as the winner of the 2026 International Day of the Girl-Child competition, commending her achievement as an example of the importance of recognising, nurturing and celebrating the talents and potential of young girls.
In her remarks, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Dr. (Mrs.) Maryam Keshinro, described child marriage as a major concern that continues to undermine the rights, welfare and future prospects of young girls. She emphasised the need to protect the girl-child and create an enabling environment in which every girl can thrive and fulfil her potential.
Dr. Keshinro noted that the Ministry remains concerned about the prevalence of child marriage and other harmful practices that deprive girls of opportunities to access education, develop their talents and contribute meaningfully to national development.
She called on parents and guardians to provide proper guidance and support for their children, encourage their aspirations and reject practices that could jeopardise their well-being and future.
Omolara Esan
Director, Information and Public Relations
