The Rivers State Ministry of Education has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights of the girl child, promoting inclusive education and ending practices that hinder girls’ access to educational opportunities.
The Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr Mina Tele Ikuru, stated this in a message to mark the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child, observed on October 11, under the theme, “End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights.”
Ikuru called for urgent action to end child marriage, eliminate gender-based discrimination and protect the health, dignity and future of every girl.
She stressed that no girl should be denied education because of poverty, early marriage, discrimination or harmful cultural practices. She also urged parents, teachers, communities and policymakers to create safe and inclusive learning environments that support girls’ academic development.
The Permanent Secretary celebrated distinguished women whose achievements continue to inspire younger generations, including Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu; Rivers State First Lady, Dr Valerie Fubara; Deputy Governor of Rivers State, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu; and the state’s Head of Service, Dr Inyingi S.I. Brown.
According to Ikuru, their leadership, professional accomplishments and dedication to public service demonstrate the capacity of women to excel in diverse fields and serve as role models for younger generations.
She reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to equitable education and initiatives that safeguard the rights of the girl child, noting that protecting girls’ rights is essential to building a fairer and more sustainable society.
