Former Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chinedum Enyinnaya Orji, has called for increased efforts towards protecting the rights of the girl child, promoting quality education and creating equal opportunities for girls to achieve their full potential.
Orji made the call in a goodwill message to commemorate the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child, celebrated annually on October 11.
The former Speaker described the occasion as an important opportunity to recognise the rights, potential, dreams and aspirations of girls across the world.
He emphasised that every girl deserves access to quality education, adequate healthcare, equal opportunities and protection from all forms of abuse and discrimination.
According to him, girls are not merely future leaders but valuable contributors to the growth and development of society.
“Our girls are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are valuable contributors to the development of our society today. When we educate a girl, protect her rights, and create opportunities for her to thrive, we invest in the progress, prosperity, and stability of our families, communities, and nation,” Orji stated.
The former lawmaker expressed concern over challenges confronting the girl child, including early marriage, gender-based violence, discrimination and limited access to education and economic opportunities.
He stressed the need for collective action by government, families, communities and other stakeholders to address these challenges and create an enabling environment for girls to succeed.
Orji further reaffirmed his commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at promoting the education, welfare, dignity and empowerment of the girl child.
He urged Nigerians to work towards building a society where every girl is valued, her voice is heard, her rights are protected and her aspirations are supported.
“Let us give every girl a reason to dream, the opportunity to grow, and the freedom to achieve greatness,” he added.
The former Speaker concluded by congratulating girls across Abia State, Nigeria and the world on the occasion of the International Day of the Girl Child.
