October 11, 2024 –
As the world marks the International Day of the Girl Child, the President of the Igbo World Union (IWU), His Imperial Majesty, Amb. Sir Dr Mishak Nnanta (KJW, Ksm, JP), Gburugburu Ndigbo Dum, has made a powerful call to action for the protection of girls' rights and an end to the harmful practice of child marriage.
In a statement to commemorate the occasion, Sir Nnanta emphasized the critical importance of ensuring girls everywhere are given the opportunity to thrive, free from the shackles of early marriage and other forms of gender-based discrimination.
“Child marriage robs young girls of their future,” Nnanta stated. “It denies them access to education, limits their economic opportunities, and exposes them to health risks. We must take a firm stand to abolish this practice and uphold the rights of every girl child to a safe, empowered, and educated future.”
This year's International Day of the Girl Child focuses on the global effort to combat human rights violation that affects millions of young girls, particularly in developing regions.
According to reports, approximately 12 million girls are married before the age of 18 each year. The practice not only violates their rights but also perpetuates cycles of poverty, illiteracy, and inequality.
As President-General of the Igbo World Union, Sir Nnanta has been a vocal advocate for social justice, gender equality, and the empowerment of the Igbo people both in Nigeria and across the globe.
He stressed that ending child marriage is not just a legal imperative but a moral one, rooted in the need to protect children’s dignity and potential.
“In our culture, children are cherished, and we must ensure that our daughters are given the same opportunities as our sons to reach their full potential,” he added.
Gburugburu Ndigbo Dum also urged government leaders, civil society, and traditional rulers to join forces in tackling child marriage through legislation, community education, and the promotion of gender equality. “Together, we can create a world where every girl can grow up free from violence and coercion, and fully enjoy her rights,” he concluded.
As activists, government bodies, and organizations around the world mark October 11 with events, campaigns, and dialogues, Amb. Nnanta's message amplifies the urgency of the fight against child marriage and highlights the need for collective action in protecting the rights of girls everywhere.
The International Day of the Girl Child, established by the United Nations in 2012, is observed annually to highlight issues facing girls globally, including access to education, health care, and protection from discrimination and violence. Ending child marriage underscores the international community’s commitment to ensuring that girls, no matter where they are born, have the right to shape their own futures.
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