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The Edo state government has urged parents and guardians to prioritise the education of the girl child and reject child marriage, stressing the need to empower girls to realise their full potential.
The call was made by the Coordinator, Office of the Edo State First Lady, Mrs Edesili Okpebholo Anani, during an event to commemorate the International Day of the Girl Child at Government House, Benin City.
Mrs Anani urged parents to provide their daughters with the necessary support, guidance and educational opportunities to enable them to achieve their aspirations and contribute meaningfully to society.
She said the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo was committed to dismantling barriers to the advancement of the girl child, noting that girls should be encouraged to discover their worth and pursue their dreams rather than being forced into early marriage.
“Marriage is good when the time is right. Our Constitution stipulates that a girl must be 18 years and above before marriage,” she said.
The First Lady’s Coordinator also charged students to take their education seriously, discover their talents and develop the confidence needed to pursue their ambitions.
In her keynote address, former Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Maria Edeko, described child marriage as unacceptable, noting that the Edo State Child Rights Law provides legal protection for children.
Edeko warned that early marriage could expose girls to serious health and social challenges, including complications arising from early pregnancy and childbirth.
She called on parents and relevant stakeholders to protect the rights of the girl child and ensure that girls are given the opportunity to complete their education before considering marriage.
Similarly, two parents, Mr Okosun Gabriel and Hajia Atine Umar, condemned child marriage and urged parents to provide adequate care, guidance and education for their children.
They emphasised the importance of creating a supportive environment where girls can grow, learn and develop the confidence to pursue their aspirations.
Some of the students who participated in the event, including Osayande Williams of Umelu Senior Secondary School, Okefe Vivian of Great Oxford International Group of Schools, and Afolabi Peace Oluwabunmi of Ihogbe College, said the programme had broadened their understanding of self-worth, confidence and the importance of pursuing their dreams.
They expressed appreciation for the lessons learnt, noting that the event had encouraged them to believe in themselves and remain focused on their educational goals.
The International Day of the Girl Child is observed annually on October 11 to promote the rights, empowerment and equal opportunities of girls worldwide.
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