Stakeholders across Nigeria have been urged to strengthen efforts to protect girls from child marriage and ensure they have access to education, healthcare and opportunities to build independent futures.
The call highlights concerns over the continued impact of early marriage on girls, including disruption of their education, increased health risks and limited economic opportunities.
Government agencies, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organisations, parents and community leaders were encouraged to work together to address the social and economic factors that contribute to child marriage.
Stakeholders also stressed the importance of keeping girls in school and raising awareness among families and communities about the long-term consequences of early marriage.
They called for stronger enforcement of laws protecting children, alongside programmes that support vulnerable families and empower girls.
According to advocates, protecting girls from child marriage requires sustained action at both government and community levels.
They maintained that every Nigerian girl deserves the opportunity to complete her education, develop her potential and make informed decisions about her future.