Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, has reaffirmed his commitment to ending child marriage, protecting girls’ rights and ensuring that every girl has access to education and opportunities to fulfil her potential.
Hamzat made this known in a message commemorating the International Day of the Girl Child, observed annually to promote the rights, welfare and empowerment of girls worldwide.
The deputy governor stressed that every girl deserves the opportunity to learn, grow and make decisions about her future, noting that no child should be deprived of her childhood through early marriage or other harmful practices.
He emphasised the importance of keeping girls in school and providing them with the necessary support to develop their abilities and pursue their aspirations.
According to him, protecting girls from early marriage and ensuring their access to education are essential steps towards building a society where they can contribute meaningfully to community development.
Hamzat, while reaffirming his commitment to safeguarding the rights of girls in Lagos State, called for greater attention to their concerns and experiences.
He urged parents, community leaders, government institutions and other stakeholders to listen to girls, take their concerns seriously and create safe environments where they can express themselves freely without fear of discrimination, abuse or intimidation.
The deputy governor also highlighted the need to invest in girls’ education, welfare and overall development, noting that such investments would contribute to stronger communities and a brighter future for Lagos State.
He maintained that empowering girls requires collective responsibility and sustained efforts to eliminate practices that limit their opportunities and prevent them from reaching their full potential.
Hamzat further encouraged stakeholders to support initiatives that promote equal opportunities and protect girls from harmful social practices.
He concluded by calling for continued commitment to creating a society where every girl can enjoy her rights, access quality education and participate fully in shaping her future.
He wished girls across Lagos State and beyond a happy International Day of the Girl Child.
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