Daughters of Dorcas International Foundation has renewed its call for an end to child marriage and greater investment in the rights, education and future of the girl child as it marked the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child with its annual Girls Rise Conference.
The conference, which was held recently in Bayelsa State, brought together distinguished professionals, advocates, speakers and young girls to address the challenges confronting girls and the urgent need to protect their rights and create opportunities for them to thrive.
Speaking at the event, themed, “End Child Marriage; Invest in Her Rights,” the Convener, Bolou-Ebi Esther Opukiri, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to its guiding mandate, “Teach, Touch and Transform,” stressing that every girl deserves the opportunity to grow up in safety, access quality education, discover her potential and make informed decisions about her future.
She noted that ending child marriage requires more than public awareness and advocacy, calling for deliberate and sustained action by parents, families, communities, institutions and policymakers to protect girls from harmful practices and uphold their fundamental rights.
According to her, investing in the girl child is essential to building stronger families and communities, adding that girls must be given the support, mentorship, education and opportunities they need to become confident, independent and productive members of society.
The conference featured a lineup of speakers, including Justice Doris Adokeme, Mrs. Adetokunbo, Dr. Rume Ndokinta, Dr. Boma Tonye Miebai, Dr. Tabowei Ikoko Ebiye Lilian, Mrs. Timipre Tobi Ebiringa and Mrs. Camila Wisdom Pedrick. The event also featured a music ministration by Psalmist Precious Oporomo.
Through the conference, the Foundation highlighted the far-reaching consequences of child marriage and the barriers that prevent many girls from reaching their full potential. It also underscored the importance of education, mentorship, equal opportunities and community support in helping girls build brighter futures.
Daughters of Dorcas International Foundation has remained committed to humanitarian service, with a focus on empowering vulnerable women and children, promoting social development and creating opportunities for meaningful and lasting change.
The annual Girls Rise Conference forms part of the Foundation’s continuing efforts to amplify the voices of girls, strengthen advocacy for their rights and encourage stakeholders to take practical steps towards their protection and advancement.
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