By Atlantic Reports

The Association of Early Childhood and Basic Education Instructors in Nigeria (AECBEIN) has called for increased investment in girls’ education, protection and empowerment, urging stakeholders to turn commitments into practical policies and budgets.

The association’s National President, Dr Sunday Fowowe, made the appeal in a statement issued in Lagos on Sunday to commemorate the International Day of the Girl Child.

He warned that poverty, discrimination, child marriage, sexual abuse and gender-based violence continued to limit girls’ opportunities.

“The girl child is not merely the woman of tomorrow; she is an important member of society today,” he said.

Fowowe argued that supporting girls would strengthen families, improve communities and contribute to national productivity and sustainable development.

Safe Education from Early Childhood

Fowowe said every girl deserved quality, inclusive and safe education from early childhood, regardless of disability, family income or location.

He urged governments, education agencies, school proprietors and development partners to prioritise underserved and conflict-affected communities.

He also called for stronger safeguarding procedures in schools, homes, religious institutions and communities, supported by accessible abuse-reporting channels and assistance for survivors.

“Education without protection is incomplete, and empowerment without safety is insufficient,” he said.

Fowowe urged authorities to hold perpetrators accountable in accordance with the law and train teachers and caregivers to recognise signs of abuse, respond appropriately to disclosures and uphold professional standards.

Inclusive Classrooms and Targeted Support

The association called for teaching practices that encouraged girls to participate confidently in science, technology, mathematics, creative arts and leadership.

Fowowe said learning materials should portray girls and women as capable contributors to society.

He identified girls with disabilities, internally displaced girls, those outside the school system and children from low-income households as groups requiring particular attention.

Support, he said, should include accessible learning environments, suitable instructional resources, trained teachers and coordinated services addressing both education and protection.

Beyond Annual Celebrations

Fowowe urged parents to provide equal learning opportunities for boys and girls, listen to children’s concerns and reject practices that undermined their safety, dignity or education.

He also called on traditional rulers, religious leaders and civil society organisations to support mentorship, scholarships, digital learning and skills development.

The statement framed its appeal around investing in girls for a safer, more inclusive and prosperous future. The official 2026 United Nations observance theme focuses on ending child marriage and investing in girls’ rights.

Fowowe said progress required sustained action beyond the annual commemoration, including policies backed by funding and implementation.

Addressing girls directly, he encouraged them to develop their talents, pursue their ambitions and seek help from trusted adults when needed.

“Your voice matters. Your education matters. Your safety matters. Your dreams matter,” he said.

Atlantic Reports: Voices. People. Facts.