The Men Against Rape Foundation (MARF) has issued a call for enhanced commitment to the rights of girls in Nigeria as the International Day of the Girl Child is observed.
In a statement by Executive Director Dr. Lemmy Ughegbe and Director of Strategic Development Dr. Augustine Eigbe, the organization underscored the 2024 theme, “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” and urged unified action to empower Nigerian girls in safe and supportive environments.
MARF highlighted the pressing challenges faced by girls in Nigeria, including gender-based violence, child marriage, lack of educational opportunities, and inadequate healthcare, which hinder their ability to achieve their dreams and contribute to society.
“Girls are the architects of tomorrow, and their vision is essential for our nation’s progress. We must ensure that every girl in Nigeria can dream, lead, and thrive in a world free from violence and inequality,” the statement emphasized.
The foundation called on all stakeholders—government, civil society, and the private sector—to take immediate action in four critical areas:
1. Elimination of Gender-Based Violence: MARF stressed the urgent need to eradicate violence against girls, including sexual abuse, trafficking, and child marriage, emphasizing that safe environments are crucial for girls to pursue their goals.
2. Enhancing Access to Education: Education is a fundamental tool for girls’ empowerment. MARF urged authorities to remove obstacles to quality education, such as poverty and gender discrimination.
3. Empowering Girls in Leadership: The foundation advocated for creating platforms that allow girls to participate in decision-making processes. “Empowering girls to lead is vital for shaping policies that impact their lives,” the statement noted.
4. Investment in Health Services: Increased investment in healthcare, particularly in sexual and reproductive health, is essential for helping girls take charge of their futures.
The statement also recognized MARF’s ongoing initiatives to protect girls’ rights, including campaigns against child marriage and support for survivors of abuse, as well as efforts to promote gender equality in education.
“In celebrating the International Day of the Girl Child, we call on all sectors of society to work together to ensure that every girl in Nigeria is safe, educated, healthy, and empowered to realize her dreams,” MARF concluded.