Edo First Lady Urges Parents to Invest in Girl Child Education, Reject Child Marriage.

Edo First Lady Urges Parents to Invest in Girl Child Education, Reject Child Marriage.

Gov. Okpebholo Commends Edo Women, Girls on International Day of the Girl Child

The Edo State Government has called on parents and guardians to invest in the education of the girl child and reject child marriage in all its forms.

The Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, made the call at an event to commemorate the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child, held at the Government House, Benin City.

Mrs. Anani urged parents to support their children, particularly the girl child, to pursue education and fulfil their potential, noting that the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo is committed to removing barriers that hinder the progress of girls in the state.

She stressed that parents must allow girls to recognize their value and pursue their dreams rather than subjecting them to early marriage.

“Marriage is good when the time is right. Our Constitution stipulates that a girl must be 18 years and above before marriage,” she said.

She also encouraged children to take their education seriously, discover their potential and develop the confidence to pursue their aspirations.

The keynote speaker and former Deputy Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Hon. Maria Edeko, explained that child marriage is unacceptable and that the Edo State Child Rights Law provides full protection for children.

She warned that early marriage exposes girls to serious health and social consequences, including complications associated with early pregnancy and childbirth.

Two parents, Mr. Okosun Gabriel and Hajia Atine Umar, also condemned child marriage and encouraged parents to provide proper care, guidance and quality education for their children.

The International Day of the Girl Child is observed annually on October 11 to promote girls’ rights, equal opportunities and empowerment worldwide.