The Association of Lady Pharmacists, Rivers State, has urged girls to show love, empathy, and support for one another to prevent bullying, depression, and vulnerability that could expose them to early marriage.
The association’s Chairperson, Lady Chinyere Ajoku, made the call in Port Harcourt on October 15 during an event marking the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child, themed ‘End Child Marriage, Invest in Girls’ Rights.’
The programme, organised in partnership with women’s professional and advocacy groups, brought together students from 10 secondary schools across the state. Participating organisations included the Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), the Medical Women Association of Nigeria (MWAN), Optometry Ladies and others.
Ajoku said bullying, rejection and a lack of emotional support could undermine girls’ mental health and make them vulnerable to exploitation and premature marriage.
She explained that girls who feel unloved or rejected by their peers could be susceptible to adults who exploit their emotional vulnerability by offering affection.
“Show love, have each other’s backs and say kind words to one another so that no girl becomes depressed or vulnerable to early marriage,” she urged.
Ajoku said the association organised the programme to educate and empower girls to understand their rights, resist child marriage and pursue their aspirations.
According to her, the association regularly conducts school-based advocacy on child abuse, menstrual health and other issues affecting girls, while encouraging them to pursue professional careers.
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She urged girls facing pressure to marry early to seek help, adding that the association planned to provide hotline numbers for counselling and support.
Speaking on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Health, Dr Vincent Wachukwu, the Director of Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance System, Dr Sobere Allison, reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to adolescent-friendly healthcare and initiatives protecting young people’s rights and well-being.
He said investing in girls’ health and well-being was essential to sustainable development. Stressing that protecting the girl child is not merely a social responsibility but an investment in a healthier, stronger and more prosperous Rivers State.
He called on parents, schools, healthcare professionals, traditional and religious leaders, and development partners to work together to end child marriage and ensure that every girl had access to education and opportunities to fulfil her potential.
In her remarks, the President of the University of Port Harcourt Women Association, Dr Chike Chinwe, represented by Prof. Adedamola Olutoyin-Onyeaso, emphasised the importance of education and proper upbringing in preparing girls for leadership and professional careers.
Using biblical figures Esther and Deborah as examples, Chinwe encouraged the students to recognise their worth, remain focused on their education and resist pressures that could jeopardise their future.
She stressed that child marriage deprives girls of opportunities to learn, develop and prepare for adulthood, urging stakeholders to protect their rights and invest in their future.
The event featured poetry, drama, debates and other presentations by students, awards presentation with UPWA Group of Schools serving as the host institution.
