– Abuja, Nigeria
As the world marks International Women’s Day 2025, the National Coalition of Civil Society to End Child Marriage in Nigeria joins global efforts in advocating for gender equality under the theme “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress.”
Child marriage remains a critical barrier to achieving gender equality in Nigeria, depriving millions of girls of their right to education, health, and a future free from violence. According to UNICEF, one in three girls in Nigeria is married before the age of 18, with devastating consequences for their well-being and socio-economic prospects. Ending this practice requires sustained investment in girls’ education, economic empowerment, legal protection, and community engagement.
“Investing in girls is one of the most powerful strategies to break the cycle of child marriage”. “On this International Women’s Day, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring every girl in Nigeria has access to education, healthcare, and the opportunity to reach her full potential.”
Call to Action
The Coalition urges:
🔹 Government agencies should increase funding and prioritize the implementation of laws protecting girls from child marriage.
🔹 Policymakers to push for strict enforcement of the Child Rights Act across all states in Nigeria.
🔹 Communities and traditional leaders champion cultural shifts that uphold girls’ rights.
🔹 Civil society organizations and private sector partners collaborate on transformative approaches that empower young girls.
Amplifying the Movement
To mark this year’s IWD, the Coalition is engaging stakeholders through policy dialogues, advocacy campaigns, and grassroots mobilization to accelerate progress in ending child marriage. With collective action and sustained investment in girls, we can create a future where every girl in Nigeria thrives.
For media inquiries, interviews, or further information, please contact:
📩endchildmarriagenig@gmail.com
📞 +234 906 918 1765
🌐 ecmcoalitionnigeria.org/ End Child Marriage Nigeria
