Invest In Your Daughters, Say No To Early Marriage - Edo First Lady Tells Parents

Invest In Your Daughters, Say No To Early Marriage - Edo First Lady Tells Parents


Falmata Ibrahim 


The Edo State Government has charged parents and guardians across the state to prioritize the education of the girl-child and shun the practice of early and forced marriage.

The Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, made the call in Benin City during an event organised to commemorate the International Day of the Girl Child at the Government House.

Mrs. Anani urged parents to give their daughters the necessary support to pursue their education and attain their full potential in life.

She reaffirmed the commitment of the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo to eliminating all barriers that impede the growth and development of the girl-child in the state.

According to her, parents must allow their girl children to understand their self-worth and pursue their dreams, rather than forcing them into early marriages.

"Marriage is good when the time is right. Our Constitution clearly stipulates that a girl must be 18 years and above before going into marriage," she stated.


The First Lady's Coordinator further encouraged young girls to be serious with their education, discover their innate talents and build the confidence to pursue their aspirations.

In her keynote address, former Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Maria Edeko, described child marriage as unacceptable and a violation of the rights of the child. She noted that the Edo State Child Rights Law provides adequate protection for children against such practices.

She warned that early marriage exposes girls to grave health and social risks, including complications arising from early pregnancy and childbirth.

Speaking in the same vein, two parents at the event, Mr. Okosun Gabriel and Hajia Atine Umar, condemned child marriage and called on parents to provide proper care, guidance and quality education for their children.

Some of the students who participated in the programme, including Osayande Williams of Umelu Senior Secondary School, Okefe Vivian of Great Oxford International Group of Schools and Afolabi Peace Oluwabunmi of Ihogbe College, said the event enlightened them on the importance of self-confidence, self-worth and pursuing their dreams.

The International Day of the Girl Child is marked every October 11 to promote the rights of girls, advocate for equal opportunities and champion their empowerment across the world.

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