The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Ondo State chapter, has reiterated the need to protect the fundamental rights of the girl-child to education, safety, bodily autonomy, and equal opportunity protected globally through frameworks conversations.

This was the emphasis when executives of the association embarked on a sensitisation visit to St Louis Girls’ Grammar School, Akure, on Monday in commemoration of 2026 International Day of the Girl Child.

The theme for this year’s celebration is “Ending Child-Marriage and Investing in Girl’s Right.”

Speaking with The Hope, the Chairperson of NAWOJ, Ondo State chapter, Comrade Tola Gbadamosi JP, stated that girls must learn to speak up, demonstrate strength and pay attention to their bodies, adding that the society must take a stand against child marriage.

She said, “The need for the girl-child to live a life of purpose cannot be over-emphasised.

“That is why we have followed up as ambassadors in leading these younger ambassadors to live by example, and encourage their peers to speak out against child marriage and sexual exploitation.”

Vice-Principal Academics of the school, who is also an alumnus, Mrs Mercy Oniye, thanked NAWOJ for choosing to enlighten the girls on their rights and prospects, adding that an investment in girls is an investment in the nation.

She also urged the association not to relent in its efforts to help groom the girl-child.

Senior prefect of the school, Gift Akinbola, urged girls to be proud of their identity, as there is no limit to the height they can attain in life.

While citing women who had excelled in various professions, Akinbola emphasised that the place of a woman goes beyond the kitchen.

Earlier on the assembly ground, Treasurer of NAWOJ, Comrade Folashade Oladeinde, admonished the students to always speak up when their rights are infringed upon.

She also stressed the need for the society to protect girls’ right and kick against child marriage.