Deputy Governor Kayode Alabi made this known in Ilorin during a visit by coalition members. He stressed the harmful effects of child marriage on girls’ mental health and future aspirations.
“Marriage requires compromise and commitment, and those below 18 are not ready for such responsibilities. We need to protect our girls so they don’t lose their vision for the future,” Alabi stated.
He also emphasized the need for stronger laws against child marriage and pledged government support through the Ministry of Social Development to enforce protective measures.
National Co-Chair of the Coalition, Mr. Kolawole Olatosimi, commended Kwara State for its proactive stance and urged the government to strengthen legal protections and budget allocations to empower at-risk girls through education and skill acquisition programs.
Olatosimi presented a policy report on girl-child protection for the government’s consideration and pledged continued support for initiatives aimed at improving the lives of women and girls.