By Chioma Obinna

As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to mark this year’s International Day of the Girl Child tomorrow, the United Nations Children’s Fund, UNICEF has called for increased attention and support for girls’ rights worldwide.
In her message to mark the Day, UNICEF’s Chief of the Field Office for South-West Nigeria, Celine Lafoucriere, emphasised the importance of empowering girls and ensuring their protection, respect, and equal opportunities.

This year’s theme, “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” reflects the findings of a UNICEF analysis that highlights the resilience and hopefulness of girls despite the challenges they face.

Lafoucriere who stressed that being a girl should not determine one’s future, lamented that millions of girls around the world are denied their rights, restricted in their choices, and limited in their potential.
UNICEF Chief who disclosed alarming statistics, disclosed that One in five young women aged 20-24 were married as children, adding that, one in four partnered/married adolescent girls have experienced sexual or physical abuse.

“Globally, 75 per cent of new HIV infections among adolescents occur in girls. One in three adolescent girls suffers from anaemia, which is a form of malnutrition. Almost double the number of adolescent girls (one in four) compared to boys is not in any form of education, employment, or training.”
She emphasised that change is possible.

“Girls alone cannot bring about the desired change. They need allies who listen to and respond to their needs – like you and me. Together; we can build a future in which every girl’s rights are protected.
“Evidence shows that with the right support, resources, and opportunities, the potential of girls around the world is limitless. When girls achieve their goals, we all move closer to achieving our global goals,” she stated.

She said with the right support, resources, and opportunities, girls can achieve their full potential and contribute to a more equitable world.

Lafoucriere urged individuals, organisations, and governments to become allies for girls and take action to protect their rights, promote their education, and empower them to reach their goals. By investing in girls, we invest in a brighter future for all.

She said this year’s theme ‘Girls’ Vision for the Future” is apt as it reflects the findings from a UNICEF analysis, which shows that girls are not only courageous in the face of challenges but hopeful for the future.

“We see girls taking action every day to realize the vision of a world where all girls are protected, respected, and empowered. Being a girl shouldn’t determine what you can do, where you can go, or who you can become. But right now, that is the reality for millions of girls across the world. Too many are being left behind, confronted by extreme challenges that deny them their rights, restrict their choices, and limit their futures.”