Edo State Government has called on parents and guardians to invest in the education the girl child and reject child marriage.
The Coordinator office of the first lady, Mrs Edesili Okpebholo Anani made the call at an event to commemorate the International Day of the Girl Child in Government House, Benin City.
The Coordinator urged parents to support their children, particularly the girl-child, to pursue their education and fulfil their potential.
Mrs. Anani said the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo was committed to removing barriers that hinder the progress of the girl child.
She stressed that parents should allow girls to recognise their value and pursue their dreams rather than subjecting them to early marriage.
“Marriage is good when the time is right. Our Constitution stipulates that a girl must be 18 years and above before marriage,” she said.
The Coordinator also urged children to take their education seriously, discover their potential and develop the confidence to pursue their aspirations.
The Keynote speaker and former Deputy speaker, Edo State House of Assembly, Maria Edeko, explained that child marriage was unacceptable and the Edo State Child Rights Law provided protection for children.
She warned that early marriage could expose girls to serious health and social consequences, including complications associated with early pregnancy and childbirth.
Two parents, Mr. Okosun Gabriel and Hajia Atine Umar, condemned child marriage and encouraged parents to provide proper care, guidance and education for their children.
Some students who participated in the event, Osayande Williams of Umelu Senior Secondary School, Okefe Vivian of Great Oxford International Group of Schools and Afolabi Peace Oluwabunmi of Ihogbe College, said the event had taught them the importance of self-confidence, self-worth and pursuing their aspirations.
The International Day of the Girl Child is observed annually on October 11 to promote girls’ rights, equal opportunities and empowerment worldwide.
