The Speaker of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Mr Somtochukwu Udeze, has called on governments at all levels to strengthen laws protecting girls, expand access to quality education and increase investment in their welfare.
He warned that discrimination, sexual abuse and inequality continued to undermine the rights and potential of the girl child.
Udeze made the call in a goodwill message marking the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child, stressing that protecting girls and empowering them to achieve their aspirations required effective legislation, sustained investment and collective action by governments, families and communities.
The message, signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Emma Madu, urged parents, teachers, community leaders and other stakeholders to prioritise girls’ empowerment, uphold their human rights and ensure that their needs and challenges received adequate attention.
The Speaker called for stronger legislative measures and practical interventions to address barriers preventing girls from accessing education, living free from violence and developing their full potential.
He stressed that governments and relevant institutions must create opportunities for girls to acquire quality education, build confidence and participate meaningfully in society.
“Girls with dreams become women with vision, purpose and impact,” Udeze said, emphasising that investment in girls’ education and well-being was essential to building a more equitable and prosperous society.
He urged stakeholders to move beyond advocacy and ensure the effective implementation of policies and laws designed to protect girls, particularly those addressing discrimination, sexual abuse, exploitation and other forms of gender-based violence.
Udeze also commended the Anambra State First Lady, Dr Nonye Soludo, for her advocacy against the dehumanisation, sexual abuse and exploitation of girls. He described sustained awareness campaigns and community engagement as important components of efforts to protect the girl child.
He called for greater collaboration among governments, parents, schools, community organisations and other stakeholders to dismantle barriers holding girls back and ensure they had access to the education, protection and opportunities needed to realise their aspirations.
The International Day of the Girl Child is observed annually on October 11 to promote girls’ rights and draw attention to challenges affecting their safety, education, health and development.
