The Rivers State Ministry of Education has called for an end to child marriage and gender discrimination, stressing the need to protect girls’ rights and ensure equal access to education.
The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr Mina Tele Ikuru, made the call in a statement to mark the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child, celebrated on October 11, with the theme, “End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights.”
Ikuru said every girl deserves the opportunity to receive an education without being hindered by poverty, early marriage, discrimination or harmful cultural practices.
She urged parents, teachers, community leaders and policymakers to work together to provide safe and inclusive learning environments where girls can develop their potential and achieve their educational goals.
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The Permanent Secretary also highlighted the achievements of prominent Nigerian women, including the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu; Rivers State First Lady, Dr Valerie Fubara; Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu; and the state Head of Service, Dr Inyingi S.I. Brown.
She noted that their accomplishments in leadership and public service serve as inspiration to young girls, demonstrating that women can succeed in different professional fields.
Ikuru reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to promoting equal educational opportunities and implementing measures to protect the rights of the girl child.
She added that safeguarding girls’ rights and investing in their education were essential to building a more equitable and sustainable society.
