The Network of Reproductive Health Journalists of Nigeria , NRHJN calls on the government, parents, community leaders, healthcare providers and other stakeholders to prioritise the health, safety and reproductive well-being of the girl child.
This is to mark the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child with the theme – *”End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls Rights “* declared by the United Nations and observed every October 11.
Every girl deserves access to quality healthcare, accurate and age-appropriate health information, adequate nutrition and a safe environment to grow and realise her full potential.
NRHJN supports protecting the health and reproductive well-being of girls essential to their personal development and the overall progress of society.
The Network is concerned that many girls continued to face challenges, including limited access to reproductive health information, inadequate menstrual health and hygiene support, gender-based violence, sexual abuse, early and forced marriage, and teenage pregnancy.
These challenges can expose girls to serious health risks, disrupt their education and undermine their social and economic opportunities.
There is the need for comprehensive, age-appropriate sexuality education to equip girls with accurate information about puberty, menstrual health, personal safety, consent, bodily autonomy and the prevention of sexually transmitted infections.
The Network notes that such education should be delivered in a culturally sensitive manner that respects family values while protecting the health, dignity and rights of girls.
NRHJN urges the Ondo State Government to strengthen adolescent-friendly healthcare services across the state, particularly in underserved rural communities, to ensure that girls could access reliable health information, counselling and appropriate medical care without discrimination, stigma or fear.
There should also be increased investment in menstrual health and hygiene, including access to affordable sanitary products, clean water, functional toilets and adequate sanitation facilities in schools and communities as no girl should be forced to miss school or abandon her daily activities because of inadequate menstrual hygiene facilities or the inability to afford sanitary products.
The Network appeals to parents and guardians to create safe and supportive environments where girls can freely discuss health concerns, ask questions about puberty and reproductive health, and seek professional medical assistance when necessary.
Traditional and religious leaders, community-based organisations and civil society groups should also intensify efforts to discourage early and forced marriage, female genital mutilation, sexual exploitation and other harmful practices that threaten girls’ physical and psychological well-being.
NRHJN advocates stronger protection mechanisms to prevent and respond to sexual and gender-based violence against girls whereby relevant authorities ensure that survivors receive timely medical attention, psychosocial support, protection and access to justice.
Keeping girls in school is an important investment in their health and future because informed and empowered girls are better positioned to protect their health, recognise abuse, seek appropriate healthcare and contribute meaningfully to their families and communities.
Upholding commitment to responsible and evidence-based journalism, the Network also calls on media organisations and journalists to give greater attention to adolescent health issues, challenge harmful stereotypes and hold relevant authorities accountable for policies and programmes designed to protect and empower the girl child.
Protecting the girl child must go beyond annual celebrations and public declarations, requiring sustained investment in healthcare, education, nutrition and protection services , thus stakeholders must work collectively towards a society where every girl, regardless of her background or location can grow up healthy, safe, informed and empowered to fulfil her potential.
E. Signed
Fatima Muraina,
State Coordinator, Ondo State NRHJN
Dupe Isename, Secretary,
Ondo State NRHJN
