INTERNATIONAL DAY OF THE GIRL CHILD: UNICEF URGES STRONGER PARENTING AND PROTECTION

United Nations Children’s Fund marks global observance by calling on families, traditional institutions, and policymakers across Nigeria to eradicate harmful social norms and prioritize adolescent education

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has called on parents, community leaders, and government stakeholders to adopt positive parenting practices as a vital framework for safeguarding the welfare and future of the girl-child.  

The appeal was issued by UNICEF representatives ahead of the global commemoration of the International Day of the Girl Child, focusing attention on the urgent need to dismantle retrogressive cultural practices, particularly child marriage.

Child advocates emphasized that deeply entrenched social norms frequently restrict girls' access to quality education, compromise their health, and truncate their long-term potential.

Highlighting the compounding vulnerabilities faced by young females, experts pointed out that inclusive educational access remains the single most effective tool for driving regional development and social equity.

Traditional and religious institutions were specifically charged with taking proactive leadership roles within their communities to steer families away from practices that endanger adolescent wellbeing.

Furthermore, the agency underscored that multi-sectoral collaboration involving social policy implementers, health sectors, and educational administrators is essential to reinforcing domestic child protection mechanisms across the country.