Education Officer Emma Asilevi and Public Figures Lead Campaign Against Child Marriage to Protect Girls' Futures

Madam Emma Asilevi, the Kadjebi District Girls’ Education Officer, has issued a stern warning to parents and guardians against the practice of forcing children, particularly girls, into marriage. Speaking at a community engagement with women’s groups in Kadjebi, Madam Asilevi emphasized that such actions are a direct violation of the Children’s Act of 1998 (Act 560). She highlighted that child marriage serves as a major barrier to the development of young girls, leading to severe educational disruption, increased health risks, and long-term social challenges that affect the community at large.

Supporting this call for the protection of young women's futures, public figure and former Big Brother Naija housemate Tochi Okechukwu has also voiced concerns regarding the pitfalls of early marriage. He cautioned that entering marriage prematurely can hinder a young woman's ability to discover her identity and full potential. Tochi warned that many women find their entire lives "reduced to being the wife," losing their independence and personal goals in the process. Both advocates agree that marriage should only be considered after an individual has attained self-sufficiency and a solid educational foundation.

Madam Asilevi further urged community leaders and stakeholders to take an active role in reporting violations and advocating for children’s rights. She stressed that it is a collective responsibility to create a conducive environment where girls can stay in school and pursue their ambitions without the threat of forced unions. By prioritizing education over early marriage, the District Education Officer believes that the cycle of poverty can be broken, allowing young women to contribute meaningfully to national development.

The consensus among education officials and public influencers remains clear: the protection of the girl child is paramount for social progress. Stakeholders are encouraged to continue educating parents on the legal implications of the Children’s Act and the transformative power of education. As these advocacy efforts intensify, the goal remains to ensure that every child has the opportunity to complete their schooling and achieve their dreams before taking on the responsibilities of domestic life.