International Day of the Girl Child: Oyibode Calls for End to Child Marriage, Greater Investment in Girls’ Rights.

The Executive Chairman of Udu Local Government Council, Olorogun (Hon.) Vincent Ogheneruemu Oyibode, JP, FCIA has called for concerted efforts to protect the rights of the girl child, end child marriage and expand opportunities for girls to access quality education, healthcare and personal development.

Oyibode made the call in a message to commemorate the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child, observed annually on October 11 to highlight the rights of girls and the challenges confronting them across the world.

This year’s theme, “End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights,” reflected the urgent need for governments, communities, families and relevant stakeholders to protect girls from early marriage and invest in their education, safety, wellbeing and future.

The Udu Council Chairman stressed that every girl deserves the opportunity to grow, learn, develop her talents and pursue her aspirations without discrimination, abuse, exploitation or harmful cultural practices.

He noted that educating and empowering girls is not merely a social responsibility but a strategic investment in stronger families, peaceful communities and sustainable development.

Oyibode urged parents and guardians to prioritise the education and welfare of their daughters, encourage them to pursue their ambitions and protect them against all forms of violence, neglect and exploitation.

He also called on community leaders, traditional institutions, religious organisations, educators and civil society groups to intensify public enlightenment against child marriage and other practices that undermine the rights and dignity of girls.

According to him, girls should be given the confidence and support to participate meaningfully in decisions affecting their lives, while families and communities must create safe environments where they can thrive and realise their full potential.

The Chairman further emphasised the importance of ensuring that girls from disadvantaged backgrounds are not denied educational opportunities because of poverty, gender discrimination or other social barriers.

He maintained that building a society where girls are protected, educated and empowered requires deliberate action, sustained commitment and collective responsibility from all stakeholders.

Oyibode called on the people of Udu Local Government Area and Nigerians at large to use the occasion to renew their commitment to safeguarding the rights of every girl child and creating opportunities for her to contribute meaningfully to society.

He reaffirmed that a girl’s future should be determined by her abilities, aspirations and opportunities, rather than by early marriage, discrimination or circumstances beyond her control.

The International Day of the Girl Child was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2011 and is observed every October 11 to promote girls’ rights and draw attention to the unique challenges they face.

Press Unit Office of The Executive Chairman of Udu Local Government Council.