On the International Day of the Girl Child, Ambassador Cynthia Obiorah emphasized the importance of investing in girls’ education and empowerment and eliminating child marriage. Speaking at Ferdeta International School in Port Harcourt, she highlighted the need for collective efforts to empower girls and address harmful gender stereotypes.
Recognized annually on 11 October, the International Day of the Girl Child brings attention to critical issues such as education, nutrition, child marriage, legal rights, and medical rights faced by girls globally. Obiorah stressed that empowering adolescent girls is essential for a brighter and more equitable future, enabling them to become equal partners in addressing global challenges.
Despite progress, girls still encounter obstacles like limited access to education, forced marriages, child labor, gender-based violence, and discrimination. Obiorah called for attitudinal changes and urged governments and communities to protect girls’ rights, support their education, and combat child marriage.
The Head of Ferdeta International School, Uyai Umuokoro, commended the initiative and pledged ongoing support for advocating the rights of girls and boys.