International Day Of The Girl Child 2026: BIBI Calls For Greater Investment In Girls’ Education, Rights, Empowerment
Hon. Dr. Sunny Aguebor, popularly known as BIBI, the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for Edo South Senatorial District in the 2027 elections, has called for greater investment in the education, healthcare, protection and empowerment of the girl child, stressing that every girl deserves equal opportunities to thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.
BIBI made the call as the world commemorates the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child, observed annually on October 11, urging governments, parents, traditional rulers, religious leaders, community leaders and development partners to strengthen efforts towards protecting girls’ rights and securing their future.
He emphasised that every girl child deserves access to quality education, adequate healthcare, a safe environment and opportunities to develop her talents and fulfil her potential, irrespective of her background or circumstances.
The Edo South senatorial candidate stressed that investing in girls was not merely a social responsibility but also an important step towards building stronger families, healthier communities and a more prosperous society.
He expressed concern over the challenges confronting many girls, including child marriage, sexual abuse, gender-based violence, child labour, exploitation and discrimination, calling for stronger child-protection systems and effective enforcement of laws designed to safeguard children.
BIBI also urged parents and guardians to prioritise their daughters’ education, encourage their ambitions and provide the support they need to pursue their dreams.
According to him, girls should be encouraged to acquire relevant skills, participate in leadership opportunities and develop the confidence to contribute to decision-making processes in their communities.
He further called for greater attention to girls in rural and underserved communities, where barriers such as poverty, inadequate educational facilities and limited access to healthcare can undermine their development.
The NDC candidate noted that meaningful investment in the girl child must go beyond public statements to include practical measures such as scholarships, improved school infrastructure, access to healthcare, vocational training and programmes that protect girls from abuse and exploitation.
He also stressed the importance of collaboration among government institutions, families, civil society organisations, traditional institutions and the private sector in creating an environment where girls can learn, grow and achieve their aspirations.
As a candidate seeking to represent Edo South in the Senate, BIBI underscored the importance of policies and legislative initiatives that protect children’s rights, promote inclusive education and expand opportunities for young people.
He maintained that empowering girls would contribute to human capital development, reduce vulnerability and strengthen the foundation for sustainable development across Edo South and Nigeria at large.
BIBI called on all stakeholders to use the occasion of the International Day of the Girl Child to renew their commitment to ensuring that every girl is safe, educated, respected and empowered to realise her full potential.
He concluded that a society that protects and invests in its girls is investing in its own future, adding that every girl deserves the opportunity to live with dignity, pursue her dreams and make a positive difference in the world.
Happy International Day of the Girl Child 2026!
