DGC: Osun NAWOJ demands greater investment in girls’ education, health, protection

 The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Osun State Chapter, has called on the government, traditional institutions, parents and other stakeholders to increase investment in the education, health and protection of the girl child.

The association made the call in a statement issued to commemorate the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child, with the theme “Girls’ Vision for the Future”.

The statement was signed by the Osun NAWOJ Chairperson, Abisola Ariwodola, and the Secretary, Oluwaranti Ojewumi, on Sunday.

NAWOJ described the girl child as the foundation of every society, noting that her progress directly influences the development of families, communities and the nation.

The association acknowledged progress in girls’ education and empowerment in Osun State but identified teenage pregnancy, child marriage, gender-based violence, out-of-school girls and digital exclusion as challenges limiting their potential.

“As women journalists, we see daily how the dreams of many girls are cut short by poverty, cultural barriers and lack of access to opportunities.

“The future we all envision for Osun and Nigeria cannot be achieved if we continue to leave the girl child behind,” it added.

The association urged the government to increase funding for girls’ education from primary to tertiary levels, with particular emphasis on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), as well as vocational skills development.

It also called for stronger enforcement of laws protecting girls against sexual abuse, child marriage and other forms of violence, alongside digital inclusion programmes to equip them with technology skills for future employment opportunities.

NAWOJ advocated economic empowerment for parents and caregivers to reduce financial pressures that force girls to abandon their education. It also pledged to increase media visibility for positive stories about girls to inspire future female leaders.

The association commended the Osun State Government, led by Governor Ademola Adeleke, for initiatives aimed at developing the girl child and urged the government to sustain and expand the programmes to reach girls in rural communities.

Reaffirming its commitment to protecting girls’ rights and welfare, NAWOJ pledged to use its media platforms to amplify their voices, report issues affecting them and advocate policies that promote their well-being.

“On this International Day of the Girl Child, we reaffirm our commitment as NAWOJ to be the voice of the voiceless. When you empower a girl, you empower a nation. Let us all work together to secure the future our girls deserve,” the statement concluded.