Chinedum Treasure
Network of Civil Society Organisations Against Child Trafficking, Abuse and Labour (NACTAL) has called for urgent and sustained action to end child marriage and guarantee every girl child the right to safety, education, dignity and a future of her own choosing.
Zonal Coordinator, Eucharia Onyemobi made the call in her message to mark the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child, themed, “End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights,”
She stressed that protecting girls from early and forced marriage must be a priority for governments, families, communities and all stakeholders committed to child protection and development.
According to her, child marriage robs girls of their childhood, disrupts their education, exposes them to health risks and increases their vulnerability to sexual abuse, domestic violence, exploitation and poverty.
“No girl should be forced to abandon her dreams or assume the responsibilities of marriage before she is ready.
“Poverty, harmful social norms, gender inequality and weak child protection mechanisms must not be allowed to determine the future of our girls.
“Every child deserves the opportunity to grow, learn, develop her abilities and make decisions about her future without coercion, discrimination or exploitation.
“NACTAL calls on governments at all levels to strengthen the implementation of child protection laws, ensure accountability for violations, improve access to quality education and healthcare, and provide effective support for children at risk of abuse, trafficking and exploitation.
“Traditional rulers, community leaders, parents and guardians must also take a firm stand against child marriage and other harmful practices. Cultural traditions must not be used to justify violations of children’s rights.
“Families should be supported to keep their girls in school and provide opportunities for their educational, social and economic development.
“NACTAL further urges civil society organisations, development partners, schools and the media to intensify awareness campaigns on child marriage and related forms of violence against girls.
“Safe reporting channels, accessible support services and effective responses to cases of abuse must be strengthened to ensure that no girl is left without protection or access to justice.
“Girls are not brides to be given away in childhood; they are children whose rights, dreams and potential must be protected.
“Investing in their education, health, skills, leadership and well-being is an investment in stronger families, safer communities and a more equitable society.
“NACTAL also calls on boys and young men to reject practices that endanger girls and become active partners in promoting respect, equality and the protection of children’s rights.
“As we mark this year’s International Day of the Girl Child, NACTAL calls for a renewed commitment to moving beyond awareness to concrete action.
“Every girl kept in school, every child protected from exploitation and every harmful practice prevented represents progress towards a society where girls can thrive.
“Ending child marriage is a shared responsibility. Protecting girls today means securing a better future for all,” the statement reads.
About Author
