Abuja: The minister emphasized that early marriage significantly increased maternal mortality, deepened poverty, and weakened human capital, further stalling national progress and denying generations of girls the right to a better future. Sulaiman-Ibrahim called for increased investment in safe education, mentorship, and empowerment, stressing that girls must be given the tools to thrive without fear or limitations in any environment.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Sulaiman-Ibrahim highlighted the necessity of creating safe spaces at home, school, and online, urging parents to protect their children, communities to reject harmful traditions, and religious leaders to act as moral guides. She underscored education as the most powerful tool to break poverty, noting that an educated girl transformed not just her life but that of her family, community, and the nation.
The minister also encouraged girls to speak out against abuse, exploitation, and discrimination, stating they were the change-makers Nigeria needed for a future shaped by bold voices and fearless leadership. ‘Your courage is needed on the front lines. Your brilliance can light up this nation. For the girl you are, you are the change we need,’ she declared.
Mr. Duncan Harvey, Country Director of SCI, emphasized the importance of viewing girls as leaders and innovators, not merely as victims of challenges such as poverty, insecurity, and displacement. He noted that despite these challenges, girls were rising as powerful advocates, designing community projects to end child marriage and improve education and healthcare access in their communities.
Harvey reaffirmed SCI’s commitment to child rights and gender equality, adding that the organisation would continue supporting girls to become active changemakers and leaders within their societies. Also speaking, Mrs. Bukky Maiye, CEO of Pink Up for Girls, called for sustained efforts to protect and empower girls, ensuring they reached their full potential across all sectors.
Maiye, represented by Mrs. Ginika Ukoha, Abuja Chapter Lead, The Women International, said the group created safe, transformative spaces for girls and women across Nigeria to grow and lead. ‘We gather not out of pity, but purpose. Millions of girls still face marriage, poverty, school dropout, and abuse. Yet, they are not just victims, they are future leaders,’ she said.
The event also featured student presentations advocating for girls’ rights to safety and education, and an award ceremony recognizing exceptional young girls excelling in various fields. A panel discussion titled ‘The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead’ showcased girls sharing how they are leading change, proving they can be active agents in transforming their communities and nation.