UNICEF Highlights Girls’ Potential on International Day of the Girl Child

Chief of the UNICEF Field Office for southwest Nigeria, Celine Lafoucriere, emphasized the immense potential of girls worldwide if provided with adequate support, resources, and opportunities. She articulated this vision during the observance of the International Day of the Girl Child on October 11, a date globally recognized for celebrating and amplifying the voices and leadership of girls.

“This year’s theme, ‘Girls’ Vision for the Future,’ resonates with findings from a UNICEF analysis, highlighting the courage and hope that girls exhibit when confronting challenges,” Lafoucriere stated. “We witness girls taking action daily to realize their vision of a world where they are protected, respected, and empowered. However, they cannot bring about the desired change alone. They need allies like you and me who will listen to and respond to their needs. Together, we can create a future where every girl’s rights are upheld,” she added.

Lafoucriere underscored the critical need for the acknowledgment of children’s rights, remarking, “Being a girl should not determine what you can do, where you can go, or who you can become. Unfortunately, this is the reality for millions of girls worldwide. Too many are left behind, facing extreme challenges that deny them their rights and limit their futures.”

The UNICEF official highlighted concerning statistics, noting that “one in five young women aged 20 to 24 were married as children, and nearly one in four partnered or married adolescent girls had experienced sexual or physical abuse.” She further pointed out that “75 per cent of new HIV infections among adolescents occur in girls, and one in three adolescent girls suffers from anaemia, a form of malnutrition.” Moreover, Lafoucriere revealed that nearly twice as many adolescent girls as boys were not engaged in education, employment, or training.

Despite these challenges, she remained optimistic about future possibilities, stating, “Change is possible. But girls need allies to help protect their rights and foster an environment where they can thrive.”

The International Day of the Girl Child, established by the United Nations in 2012, addresses issues such as gender inequality, child marriage, and limited access to education and healthcare. This global event emphasizes the potential of girls and advocates for their rights, ensuring their participation in social, economic, and political spheres and mobilizing efforts to promote gender equality and create supportive environments for girls.