The Helpline Social Support Initiative (HSSI) has called for stronger measures to end child marriage, protect girls from abuse and ensure their rights are upheld as the world marks the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child.
The organisation also stressed the need to invest in girls’ education, safety and leadership opportunities to empower them to speak up for themselves and participate meaningfully in society.
In a statement issued on Sunday to mark the day, which has the theme, “End child marriage and invest in girls’ rights!”, the Abuja-based organisation said protecting girls must go beyond public declarations to include practical measures that safeguard their welfare and future.
The President of HSSI, Dr Jumai Ahmadu, highlighted the importance of initiatives such as the Voice of the Girls Parliament in helping young girls understand their rights, express their concerns and engage confidently with those responsible for their welfare.
“Every girl deserves to grow up knowing that her voice matters, her safety matters, and her dreams are valid,” Ahmadu said.
She explained that the initiative encourages girls to understand their rights, speak confidently and engage respectfully with relevant authorities and institutions.
However, she cautioned that promoting respectful engagement should not prevent girls from speaking out against abuse, discrimination or injustice.
“Girls should be able to raise concerns, seek help, and report threats without fear, intimidation, or blame,” she said.
Ahmadu added that the responsibility for protecting girls rested primarily with adults and institutions, rather than being placed on the girls themselves.
Warning about the harmful effects of child marriage on girls’ education, health and future opportunities, HSSI called on governments, traditional and religious leaders, parents, schools and civil society organisations to strengthen efforts to protect the rights of the girl child.
The organisation urged relevant stakeholders to strengthen laws and enforcement measures against child marriage, exploitation and abuse, while expanding access to safe and inclusive education, particularly for girls at risk of dropping out of school.
It also called for accessible and confidential reporting channels through which girls could report abuse and receive timely assistance.
Other recommendations included investing in girl-led initiatives, mentorship schemes and leadership programmes, as well as ensuring that girls’ views were considered in policy formulation and programme implementation.
Reaffirming HSSI’s commitment to advancing girls’ rights and welfare, Ahmadu urged stakeholders to translate their promises into concrete action.
“As we celebrate girls today, we must match our words with action.
“Let us listen when they speak, protect them when they seek help, and create opportunities for them to thrive.
“Their rights are an entitlement, and safeguarding those rights is our shared responsibility,” she said.
