UNICEF admonishes girls as Nigeria marks day of the girl child.

” Being a girl shouldn’t determine what you can do, where you can go, or who you can become, “.
The United Nation’s Children’s Fund, UNICEF, gave the admonition in a message to year 2024 International Day of the Girl Child celebrated on October 11 every year.

Chief of the UNICEF Field Office for South-West Nigeria, Celine Lafoucriere reaching out to girls on this year’s event said, right now, it is the reality for millions of girls across the world.

‘ Too many are being left behind, confronted by extreme challenges that deny them their rights, restrict their choices, and limit their future’.

According to her, the day is a key global moment to celebrate girls and amplify their voices, actions, and leadership, noting that, the day also belongs to everyone who care about girls and taking action to advocate the full spectrum of girls’ rights.

‘ Today, one in five young women aged between 20 and 24 years were married as children, Nearly one in four partnered/married adolescent girls have experienced sexual or physical abuse ‘. Lafoucriere

Report says globally, 75% of new HIV infections among adolescents occur in girls. , with one in three adolescent girls suffering from anemia, which is a form of malnutrition.

She expressed dismay that, Almost double the number of adolescent girls, (one in four ) compared to boys are not in any form of education, employment, or training.

Lafoucriere pointing out that, although change is possible, girls alone cannot bring about the desired change, ‘ They need allies who listen to and respond to their needs – like you and me. Together, we can build a future in which every girl’s rights are protected ‘.

Evidence shows that with the right support, resources, and opportunities, the potential of girls around the world is limitless.
She said and quote, ‘When girls achieve their goals, we all move closer to achieving our global goals ‘.

This year’s theme ‘Girls’ Vision for the Future” is apt, because It reflects the findings from a UNICEF analysis, which shows that girls are not only courageous in the face of challenges but hopeful for the future.

‘ We see girls taking action every day to realize the vision of a world where all girls are protected, respected, and empowered ‘. Lafoucriere stated