Islamic scholars have called for urgent action against child marriage, urging parents and guardians to protect girls’ rights, prioritise their education and allow them to pursue their aspirations before marriage.

The scholars spoke at an event organised by the Lateefah Modupeola Okunnu Foundation (LMO Foundation) to mark this year’s International Day of the Girl Child. They warned that early marriage could deny many girls the opportunity to complete their education and develop the skills needed to secure a better future. They advocated a rethink of the practice, stressing the need for greater awareness of its dangers, particularly around consent and the emotional, intellectual and financial readiness required for marriage.

Deputy Head of Crescent School, Mrs. Rekia Etiko, cautioned that reaching puberty did not necessarily mean “a girl is physically, emotionally or intellectually prepared for marriage.” She identified poverty, limited education, cultural practices, social pressure and insecurity as major drivers of child marriage, especially in Northern Nigeria.

Etiko said education, emotional maturity and financial stability must be essentially considered before taking on adult responsibilities.

She, however, stressed that a girl’s education should never be regarded as less important than a boy’s.

Also speaking, a former Imam at the Ikoyi Central Mosque, Ustaz Hussain Bin Hyacinth, urged young people to prioritise education, personal development and financial stability before considering marriage.

“Face your studies. When you are of age, you pass out from your school, you go to the university, or may be you learn one trade, you have something to do. That’s when you can decide to go into marriage,” he advised.

He explained that while Nigerian law generally recognises 18 as the age of adulthood, Islamic teachings also consider certain conditions that must be met before considering embarking on the action.

Bin Hyacinth, therefore, warned that young people who enter marriage without adequate preparation may face difficulties affecting their education, psychological wellbeing and financial circumstances.