CSACEFA Advocates for Enhanced Investment in Girls' Education to Combat Child Marriage

The Coalition of Civil Society Action for Education for All (CSACEFA), represented by its Lagos State Chapter, has issued a clarion call for increased investments in girls’ education and more robust child protection measures. This urgent appeal was made during the Lagos Education Summit, held in conjunction with the International Day of the Girl Child 2026, at the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) Hall in Maryland, Lagos. The summit's theme, "End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights," underscored the critical importance of empowering young girls through education.

Stella Olubunmi Francis, the Lagos Coordinator of CSACEFA, articulated the coalition's position, stating that every child, regardless of gender or circumstance, deserves access to quality education. She expressed deep concern about the challenges faced by pregnant schoolgirls, who often encounter stigma and discrimination that hinder their educational pursuits. "There is a lot of stigma and shame, but these children should not be denied education because of their pregnancies. We need to create more opportunities for them to continue their education," Francis emphasized.

In a show of support, Lamidi Akeem, representing the Executive Chairman of SUBEB, Dr. Akeem Babatunde Shittu, reiterated the Lagos State Government's commitment to prioritizing children's rights and basic education. He noted that the government has taken significant steps by domesticating the Child Rights Act, which mandates that every agency responsible for children, particularly SUBEB, actively contribute to safeguarding their rights. This commitment reflects a broader strategy to ensure that all children, especially girls, have the opportunity to thrive in a supportive educational environment.

The call to action by CSACEFA resonates with ongoing efforts to address the pervasive issue of child marriage in Nigeria, which continues to thwart the educational and personal development of young girls. As stakeholders gather to discuss these pressing issues, the hope is that collaborative efforts will lead to tangible changes that will empower girls and foster a more equitable society.