Lagos:The Lagos State Government has reiterated its dedication to eliminating child marriage and enhancing educational opportunities for girls through legal protections and mentorship programs. Officials emphasized these commitments at the Girl-Child Day 2026 Innovate-Eko STEAM Mentorship Series held at Lagos State University of Education, Oto-Ijanikin, in celebration of the International Day of the Girl-Child.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the International Day of the Girl-Child, observed every October 11, aims to raise awareness about the unique challenges girls face while promoting their empowerment and human rights. The theme for this year’s event was ‘End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights,’ organized by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Lagos State Governor on Education.
Mr. Jamiu Alli-Balogun, the state Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, highlighted the state’s efforts to expand quality education, improve science laboratories and digital learning tools, and strengthen policies against discrimination. He noted that initiatives like Innovate-Eko equip girls with problem-solving skills, creativity, and confidence to pursue opportunities in STEAM-related fields.
Mrs. Abisola Dokunmu-Adegbite, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, represented by Mrs. Dorosimi Olajumoke, affirmed the need for equal opportunities to help girls reach their full potential. She urged the community to educate, protect, and encourage girls, emphasizing their critical role in the future of society.
Deputy Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mrs. Mojisola Miranda, called for stronger enforcement of child protection laws and sustained investment in girls’ education. She stressed the necessity of coordinated action by governments, families, and communities to protect girls from harmful cultural practices.
Mr. Opeyemi Eniola, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Secondary Education, encouraged stakeholders to support girls through scholarships, mentorship, and vocational training, while advocating against gender-based violence. He highlighted the importance of training in Artificial Intelligence, robotics, and data analytics to prepare girls for future opportunities.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende, advised girls to focus on their studies and resist early marriage pressures. He emphasized that education should be their priority, reinforcing the message with interactions from successful women at the event.
Mrs. Titilayo Rhodes-Vivour, Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, advised girls on the importance of protecting their privacy and rejecting inappropriate advances. She urged them to assert their right to bodily autonomy and speak up against any boundary violations.
Princess Damilola Sonayo-James, Deputy Governorship Candidate of the All Progressives Congress, noted the state’s Child’s Rights Law, which prohibits child marriage and guarantees educational opportunities for girls who become pregnant. She underscored the importance of balanced interventions for both girls and boys, promoting sustained investment in education and leadership opportunities to foster a safer society.
The event included a panel session where girls could ask questions and receive guidance from speakers. It also featured the distribution of books and cash awards to encourage and recognize boldness among participants.