UNICEF seeks urgent action against child marriage

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has called for urgent action to combat child marriage in Bauchi and Gombe states. At a stakeholder engagement in Gombe, UNICEF's Chief of the Field Office, Dr Nuzhat Rafique, expressed alarm over the prevalence of the practice, which she warned undermines girls' potential and limits their opportunities to contribute meaningfully to society.

Dr Rafique emphasized that child marriage prevents girls from achieving their full potential, stating, "If child marriage will not end, the girls will not get the right opportunities to grow to their best potential. And if girls are behind, then the nation will be behind." She stressed that safeguarding girls' rights demands a coordinated effort from various sectors, including education, health, and social protection, alongside traditional institutions, civil society organizations, state governments, and lawmakers.

Dr Rafique highlighted that keeping girls in school is a key strategy, as it delays marriage, equips them with career skills, and enables community and national development. Ms Ladi Alabi, a Child Protection Specialist at UNICEF's Bauchi Field Office, called for a holistic approach to girl-child development, addressing social, cultural, educational, and health challenges.

She warned of the health risks associated with early marriage and pregnancy, specifically complications like obstetric fistula that can arise during childbirth.