NAWOJ CALLS FOR END TO CHILD MARRIAGE, GREATER INVESTMENT IN GIRLS’ RIGHTS
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By: Muftau Fatimo
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Ogun State chapter, has called for an end to child marriage and increased investment in girls’ rights as the world marks the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child.
The association made the call in a statement issued on Sunday and signed by its Chairperson, Morenikeji Sobaloju.
NAWOJ said this year’s theme, ‘Ending Child Marriage and Investing in Girls’ Rights’, underscores the need to protect every girl’s right to education, safety and the freedom to make informed decisions about her future.
The association noted that child marriage deprives girls of their childhood, disrupts their education, threatens their health and limits their ability to contribute meaningfully to society.
Sobaloju stressed that every girl deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, make informed choices and fulfil her potential without fear, discrimination or harmful cultural practices.
She urged governments, parents, traditional and religious leaders, as well as civil society organisations, to work collectively towards ending child marriage.
The NAWOJ chairperson also called on relevant authorities to strengthen the enforcement of child protection laws, expand access to quality education and create more opportunities for girls to thrive.
“As women journalists, we reaffirm our commitment to using the power of the media to amplify girls’ voices, expose harmful practices and hold stakeholders accountable,” Sobaloju said.
She added that investing in girls was essential to building stronger families, healthier communities and a better society.
“Every girl deserves a future filled with hope, dignity, opportunity, and freedom from child marriage. When we invest in girls, we invest in stronger families, healthier communities, and a better society,” she stated.
The International Day of the Girl Child is observed annually on October 11 to raise awareness of the challenges facing girls and promote gender equality worldwide.
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