WARDC affirms commitment to rights of women, girls

In commemoration of the International Day of the Girl Child, Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre (WARDC) has affirmed its commitment to recognising and uplifting the voices of girls, emphasizing their autonomy, agency, and active participation in shaping a brighter and more equitable future for all.

Speaking on the theme for the day, “Girls’ Vision for the Future”, founding director, Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi said, “we at WARDC are steadfast in our resolve to stand up for the rights of young women and girls in Nigeria. We firmly believe that the rights and welfare of girls are critical to the future of our society. Families succeed, communities grow, and countries advance when females thrive.”

She noted that despite the significant progress in advocating for girls’ rights, numerous challenges remain. Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), limited access to education, limited access to resources, and systemic discrimination continue to hinder the potential of many girls. Harmful practices such as child marriage and early pregnancies further exacerbate these issues, robbing girls of their right to education and personal development.

“It is critical that girls’ voices be heard and that their needs be given top priority in policy discussions and decision-making processes as we navigate these ongoing issues. We implore all parties involved—governments, schools, parents, and communities—to give girls’ voices and visions top priority as we consider the goals of girls in the modern world.

“It is essential to create environments where they feel free to dream, voice their opinions, and get instruction. A good education is both an essential right and an effective means of empowering oneself. It gives girls the information and abilities they need to succeed in life and follow their dreams.”

The human rights lawyer however urged decision-makers to fund inclusive educational programmes that address the unique needs of female students. This entails putting in place thorough sexual and reproductive health education, removing obstacles to students attending school, and guaranteeing safe learning settings. By giving girls access to high-quality education, we set the stage for their future success and empowerment.

“It takes a collaborative effort to tear down the obstacles preventing women and girls from reaching their full potential. WARDC is dedicated to continuing our advocacy for girls’ rights. We will strive to ensure that their voices are heard and their needs addressed. As we commemorate this important day, let us unite in our commitment to supporting the visions and aspirations of girls. Together, we can create a world where every girl has the opportunity to thrive and succeed,” she added.