As the world celebrates the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child, Hon. Dr Inglis-Ekeke Asinyetogha Thelma, Deputy Mayor of Ukwa East Local Government Area, has celebrated the potential, resilience and limitless possibilities of the girl child.
The 2026 celebration, themed “End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights!”, underscores the need to protect girls from early marriage, promote their rights and provide opportunities for them to achieve their dreams.
Hon. Asinyetogha Thelma noted that the girl child is a valuable asset to society, with the potential to excel in education, science, business, politics, leadership and other fields. She emphasised that every girl deserves quality education, protection, encouragement and equal opportunities to realise her full potential.
She called on parents, government, community leaders and other stakeholders to work together to end child marriage, discourage harmful cultural practices and invest in the education and empowerment of girls.
The Deputy Mayor also encouraged girls to believe in themselves, remain focused on their education and pursue their aspirations with confidence and determination.
She concluded that celebrating the girl child must go beyond words to include practical efforts to protect her rights, nurture her talents and create an environment where she can thrive.
“Every girl has a dream, a voice and the potential to change the world. When we educate, protect and empower our girls, we invest in a brighter future for all,” she said.
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