The Child is Gold Foundation (CIGF) has called for an end to child marriage and increased investment in girls’ education, protection and leadership as part of activities marking the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child in Bauchi State.
The foundation, through its Renewed Women’s Voice and Leadership (RWVL) Project, organised an advocacy and empowerment engagement for more than 50 female students from Love Paradise Academy and Hope Academy in Bauchi.
The event, held under the theme, “End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights!”, aimed to empower girls with the confidence, communication skills and knowledge to advocate for their rights and participate in decisions affecting their lives.
A major highlight of the engagement was a public-speaking and confidence-building session designed to equip participants with practical skills to express themselves, develop leadership abilities and become advocates for girls’ rights.
The programme also featured a drama presentation by D’Fest Crew, which depicted the harmful consequences of child marriage, particularly its effects on girls’ education, health, personal development and future opportunities.
Through the advocacy sessions, participants were encouraged to understand their rights and recognise the importance of education, protection, leadership and meaningful participation in their communities.
CIGF said every girl deserved the opportunity to learn, lead and thrive without limitations, stressing the need for collective action to address harmful social norms and practices that restrict girls’ opportunities.
The foundation urged parents, community leaders, policymakers and other stakeholders to intensify efforts to end child marriage, keep girls in school and create safe and supportive environments for them to realise their full potential.
The activity was implemented in collaboration with the Young Leaders Network, Hope for the Living Joy Steve Foundation and the CSO Coalition.
The RWVL Project focuses on promoting women’s and girls’ voices, leadership, protection and empowerment while addressing harmful practices that undermine their rights and development.
CIGF reaffirmed its commitment to amplifying girls’ voices and supporting initiatives that ensure every girl is protected, empowered and given the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to society.
The International Day of the Girl Child is observed annually on October 11 to highlight the challenges girls face and promote the protection of their rights and opportunities for their development.
