The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has called on the Federal Government to create opportunities for adolescent Nigerian girls to express themselves, learn, and thrive.
This is in order to recognise the abundant resilience, strength, and untapped potential that many girls possess.
In a press release commemorating the 2023 International Day of the Girl, the UNICEF Country Representative, Cristian Munduate, says it is crucial to give unwavering and paramount commitment to girls for the progress of the nation.
UNICEF warns that the country’s estimated 26 million adolescent girls (ages 10 to 19) are at risk, especially those who are marginalised owing to a handicap, poverty, or other crises.
It recommends that the spotlight must remain on championing girls’ education, preventing harmful cultural practices, advancing menstrual hygiene, offering tailored health services, and meeting the nutritional requirements of these young ladies.
Munduate says the potential of girls is limitless, but society must first provide them with the platforms to express, learn, and thrive. And UNICEF’s commitment to this cause is unwavering and paramount for the nation’s progress.
Adding that in a rapidly evolving world, the dreams and aspirations of adolescent girls are the beacons that can guide efforts towards a more inclusive, equitable future. While the terrain might be fraught with challenges, there’s hope.
Nigeria’s adolescent girls are not passive bystanders but active agents of change, driving transformative initiatives in their communities. The time has come for their voices to echo louder in the halls of decision-making.
The statement adds that on this International Day of the Girl, UNICEF Nigeria calls for renewed vigour in safeguarding and fostering the rights of adolescent girls, because their boundless potential deserves nothing less than the country’s utmost commitment and investment.
