Fifty-two students of Apo Secondary School in Abuja have participated in an awareness and empowerment session designed to help girls understand their rights, speak up against abuse and remain in school.
The training was organized as part of activities marking the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child, with a focus on the challenges that threaten girls’ education, safety and personal development.
During the session, facilitators discussed the causes and consequences of child marriage, highlighting its effects on girls’ education, health, personal development and future opportunities. They explained how early marriage can limit a girl’s choices and prevent her from reaching her full potential.
The students were also educated on their rights and how to recognize situations that could expose them to abuse, exploitation and other forms of harm. Facilitators stressed the importance of understanding these risks and knowing where to seek help when their rights are violated.
A major focus of the training was encouraging girls to speak up. Participants were introduced to relevant institutions and reporting channels for cases of abuse, exploitation and violations of children’s rights. They were encouraged to approach trusted adults and appropriate authorities whenever they or someone they know faces a threat.
The programme also addressed digital safety, recognizing the growing role of online platforms in the lives of young people. Students were taught how to protect their personal information, exercise caution when interacting with strangers, avoid sharing sensitive content and verify information before reading or circulating it.
However, facilitators also highlighted the positive opportunities digital platforms offer, including access to educational resources, self-expression and personal development.
As part of the initiative, the students received more than 50 writing materials to support their education and encourage them to remain in school. The materials also contained information on how to contact relevant authorities to report predators, reinforcing the importance of seeking help when faced with abuse or exploitation.
The session was interactive, allowing students to ask questions, participate in discussions and share their perspectives. Their involvement reflected the programmes’ emphasis on recognizing girls as active participants in conversations and decisions that affect their lives.
Titled “Youth Voices Against Child Marriage: Every Child Deserves Education,” the programme was organised by Naija Feminists Media (NFM) with support from Global Activists Network (GAN).
The 2026 International Day of the Girl Child theme, “End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights,” highlights the need for stronger action against harmful practices and greater investment in girls’ education, protection and personal development.
For NFM, creating safe spaces where girls can discuss their challenges, understand their rights and access reliable information is essential to building confidence and encouraging self-advocacy.
The organization emphasized that education remains central to protecting girls from harmful social practices that restrict their opportunities. Access to quality education, accurate information and supportive environments can help girls make informed decisions about their lives and pursue futures beyond the limitations imposed by child marriage.
NFM and GAN expressed hope that the initiative would strengthen awareness of girls’ rights and encourage young people to challenge practices that threaten their safety, wellbeing and development.
The central message of the programme was that every girl deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, realize her potential and make decisions about her own future
