On May 14, 2025, the Enugu State Chapter of the National Coalition of Civil Society to End Child Marriage in Nigeria (CSO-ECM) paid an advocacy visit to the leadership of Nkanu West Local Government Area, Enugu State, as part of its continued efforts to foster local partnerships for ending child marriage.
The delegation was received by Barr. Chidi Ani, Chief of Staff to the Local Government Chairman, who represented the Chairman during the engagement. The meeting focused on strengthening collaboration between civil society and local government to address the persistent issue of child marriage in communities across Nkanu West.
A key highlight of the visit was the official presentation of the Policy and Stakeholder Research and Analysis on Child Marriage in Nigeria, a comprehensive document developed by the Coalition to provide evidence-based insights and guide action at national and sub-national levels. The report outlines the drivers of child marriage, policy gaps, and strategic recommendations for prevention and response.
The CSO-ECM Enugu Chapter emphasized the need for local authorities to support girl-centered policies, invest in education, and work closely with community structures to shift harmful norms and practices. The meeting reinforced the Coalition’s commitment to ensuring that government at all levels is engaged in driving meaningful, lasting solutions to protect girls’ rights and futures.
This visit is part of a broader advocacy push by the Coalition to engage key stakeholders across Enugu State and create inclusive, community-rooted pathways for ending child marriage.
