First Lady Calls for Action Against Child Marriage on International Day of the Girl Child

On October 11, 2026, the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, called for an end to child marriage during the International Day of the Girl Child. She emphasized that every girl should have access to education, safety, health, and the ability to shape her own future.

Tinubu’s message highlighted the theme for this year’s observance, which is “End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights.” She pointed out that child marriage is a significant barrier to girls’ education and overall well-being.

According to Tinubu, girls everywhere deserve to grow up free from discrimination and harmful practices. She stated, “Every girl deserves the freedom to learn, grow, and pursue her dreams without discrimination, violence or harmful practices limiting her future.”

She described girls as vital contributors to society, possessing strength and leadership potential. Tinubu urged families, community leaders, and policymakers to take action against child marriage and to invest in girls’ education and health.

“When girls thrive, families prosper, communities grow stronger and nations advance,” she said, stressing that protecting girls is crucial for social and economic development.