By JUSTINA AUTA

Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Minister of Women Affairs, says early marriage continues to hinder Nigeria’s development, with 44 per cent of girls married before age 18, and 18 per cent before turning 15.

She said this during the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child (IDGC) celebration on Friday in Abuja, supported by Save the Children International (SCI) Nigeria and Pink Up for Girls Initiative.

The minister described child marriage as a sobering violation of rights, stressing it perpetuated poverty, inequality, and robbed girls of education, voice, and opportunity to contribute meaningfully to society.

“In spite of progress, the statistics are distressing. According to UNICEF, 44 per cent of Nigerian girls marry before 18, and 18 per cent before 15. Each figure represents a dream deferred and potential lost,” she stated.

She said early marriage increased maternal mortality, deepened poverty, and weakened human capital, further stalling national progress and denying generations of girls the right to a better future.

Sulaiman-Ibrahim called for increased investment in safe education, mentorship, and empowerment, stressing that girls must be given the tools to thrive without fear or limitations in any environment.

“Beyond advocacy, we must build safe spaces at home, school, and online.

“Parents must protect, communities must reject harmful traditions, and religious leaders must act as moral guides,” she added.

The minister highlighted education as the most powerful tool to break poverty, noting that an educated girl transformed not just her life but that of her family, community, and the nation.

She urged girls to speak out against abuse, exploitation, and discrimination, saying they were the change-makers Nigeria needed for a future shaped by bold voices and fearless leadership.

“Your courage is needed on the front lines. Your brilliance can light up this nation. For the girl you are, you are the change we need,” she declared.

Mr Duncan Harvey, Country Director of SCI, emphasised the importance of viewing girls as leaders and innovators, not merely as victims of challenges such as poverty, insecurity, and displacement.

He noted that in spite of those challenges, girls were rising as powerful advocates, designing community projects to end child marriage and improve education and healthcare access in their communities.

Harvey reaffirmed SCI’s commitment to child rights and gender equality, adding that the organisation would continue supporting girls to become active changemakers and leaders within their societies.

Also speaking, Mrs Bukky Maiye, CEO of Pink Up for Girls, called for sustained efforts to protect and empower girls, ensuring they reached their full potential across all sectors.

Maiye, represented by Mrs Ginika Ukoha, Abuja Chapter Lead, The Women International, said the group created safe, transformative spaces for girls and women across Nigeria to grow and lead.

“We gather not out of pity, but purpose. Millions of girls still face marriage, poverty, school dropout, and abuse. Yet, they are not just victims, they are future leaders,” she said.

Other highlights of the event included student presentations advocating girls’ rights to safety and education, and an award ceremony recognising exceptional young girls excelling in various fields.

A panel discussion titled “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead” featured girls sharing how they are leading change, proving they can be active agents in transforming their communities and nation. (NAN)