LIFESTYLE
“We Want Our Girls to Marry, But Not as Children” — Abia First Lady Declares War on Child Marriage
“We Want Our Girls to Marry, But Not as Children!” — Abia First Lady Declares War on Child Marriage
…Highlights Governor Alex Otti’s Free Education, TechRise Programme and Leadership Academy as Pathways to Girls’ Empowerment
As the world commemorates the International Day of the Girl Child, the First Lady of Abia State, Mrs. Priscilla Chidinma Otti, has delivered a strong message against child marriage, calling on parents, traditional rulers, teachers and other stakeholders to protect the rights, education and future of every girl child.
In a statement marking the global celebration, themed around ending child marriage and investing in girls’ rights, the First Lady stressed that girls deserve the opportunity to grow into educated, skilled, confident and independent women before making life-changing decisions such as marriage.
“We want our girls to marry, but not as children. We want them to marry when they are grown, educated, skilled, confident, and able to make their own choices,” she declared.
Priscilla Otti reaffirmed that protecting the rights of girls remains a priority in Abia State, highlighting programmes introduced under the administration of Governor Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, to expand educational and developmental opportunities for young people.
According to her, the administration is investing in girls through free education, the TechRise Programme and the Leadership Academy, initiatives she identified as important pathways towards equipping young girls with knowledge, leadership abilities and skills for a productive future.
She further highlighted the efforts of her office and the Safe Tent Care Initiative, which she said continues to provide girls with opportunities to develop practical skills, build confidence and achieve dignity and economic independence.
Encouraging girls across the state to take advantage of these opportunities, she emphasised that investing in girls is not merely a social responsibility but an investment in the future of families, communities and Abia State.
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In a direct appeal to parents, traditional institutions, educators and community leaders, the First Lady urged collective action to end child marriage and ensure that no girl is denied her childhood, education or opportunities because of harmful societal practices.
“An educated girl builds a stronger family, a skilled girl will never be a burden. Let us protect her today so she can build Abia tomorrow,” she stated.
Her message underscored the importance of education, skills acquisition and personal development in breaking cycles of poverty, preventing early marriage and empowering the next generation of female leaders.
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As Abia joins the international community to celebrate the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child, the First Lady’s message serves as a call for stronger partnerships among government, families, schools and communities to create an environment where every girl can pursue her ambitions without discrimination or premature marriage.
She concluded by extending warm wishes to girls across the state, saying:
“Happy International Day of the Girl Child to my dear daughters of Abia.”
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