The Kwara State Government has warned that it will no longer tolerate child marriage and any form of violence against girls and women.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq made this known during a media event in Ilorin on Thursday, where he promised to fully enforce the laws that protect children and promote their rights.
Speaking at the one-day media hangout and training organised by Chidimma and Havilah Foundation in collaboration with the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Kwara State Council, the governor said that early marriage is harmful and puts young girls at serious risk. He said it is not just a cultural issue but a dangerous practice that must stop.
“Early marriage is not only a violation of the Child Rights Act, but also a life-threatening menace that leads to complications like obstetric fistula and robs young girls of their dreams,” the governor said.
He explained that the state has already adopted the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act and is ready to enforce it. The governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Social Development, Dr Mariam Nnafatima-Imam, also thanked the organisers of the programme and assured them that his administration will continue to support programmes that promote the well-being of young people, especially girls.
Also speaking at the event, the Kwara State Director of the National Orientation Agency, Abdulganiyu Dare, said more needs to be done to protect children from violence and abuse. He stressed the importance of using media, community mobilisation and good parenting to create safer homes, schools and communities for adolescents.
In his speech, Chairman of the Kwara NUJ Council, Abdullateef Lanre Ahmed, raised concern about how technology is now being used to harm girls. He mentioned some recent cases involving ritual killings of young girls and called on the media to help create more awareness and educate the public.
Founder of the Chidimma and Havilah Foundation, Tope Omotosho, who was represented by Havilah Omotosho, said the foundation is committed to helping adolescent girls, especially those from poor backgrounds. He said the goal is to empower them to live better lives.
Meanwhile, the state government has also alerted residents to a possible flood risk. According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, the National Flood Early Warning Systems Centre has warned of heavy rainfall in the coming days. The ministry said Jebba and nearby communities in Moro Local Government Area are among the places most likely to be affected.
The Press Secretary of the ministry, Ashaolu Omotola, advised residents in the flood-prone areas to take precautions as the rainy season reaches its peak. He said flash floods and other related problems could occur if the rains become too heavy.
