RismadarVoice Reporters
October 12, 2026
The Rivers State Government has reiterated its commitment to protecting the rights, health and welfare of the girl child, calling for stronger collective action against child marriage, sexual exploitation and gender-based violence.
The Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Health, Dr Vincent Wachukwu, committed to an event marking the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child at Government Secondary School, Rumueme, Port Harcourt.
Speaking on the theme, “End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights,” Wachukwu emphasised the importance of creating an environment where girls can access quality education, healthcare and opportunities for personal development without discrimination or exploitation.
He said protecting the girl child requires sustained efforts by government institutions, parents, caregivers, community leaders and development partners to eliminate harmful practices that threaten girls’ safety and prospects.
The permanent secretary condemned child marriage, sexual exploitation and gender-based violence, describing such practices as threats to the physical, emotional and social development of young girls.
He urged parents and caregivers to prioritise girls’ education, healthcare and general welfare, stressing that investments in their development would contribute to stronger families and communities.
Wachukwu also highlighted the importance of adolescent health services, noting that young people require accurate information, appropriate guidance and supportive environments to navigate the challenges associated with adolescence.
Speaking on activities marking the 2026 International Adolescent Health Week, he disclosed that adolescent hubs had been established to equip young people with practical knowledge, vocational training and income-generating skills.
According to him, the initiative is intended to improve adolescents’ capacity for personal development and economic independence while providing opportunities to acquire useful skills.
He further encouraged parents to strengthen communication with their children, particularly adolescents, by creating an atmosphere of trust where they can openly discuss personal challenges, health concerns and other issues affecting their development.
Wachukwu stressed that constructive engagement between parents and adolescents could help young people make informed decisions and seek appropriate support when necessary.
Representatives of the World Health Organisation, Rivers State Hospitals Management Board, Nigeria Police Force, Ministry of Youth Development and Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Programme also participated in the event.
The stakeholders emphasised the importance of coordinated interventions to address child marriage, gender-based violence, inadequate access to healthcare and other challenges affecting adolescent girls.
They called for sustained collaboration among government agencies, educational institutions, families, community organisations and development partners to strengthen child protection mechanisms and improve access to adolescent-friendly health services.
The event highlighted the need to translate commitments to girls’ rights into practical measures that promote their safety, education, health and participation in society.
