Lagos seeks equal education, protection for girls
…moves to curb child marriage
By Shayo Olatonmiwa
The Lagos State Government has called for stronger protection of girls’ rights and increased investment in their education to curb child marriage and expand opportunities in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM).
The call was made during activities marking the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child at Lagos State University of Education, Oto-Ijanikin, organised by the Innovate-Eko STEAM Mentorship Series under the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Education.
The Deputy Governorship Candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Princess Damilola Sonayo-James urged stakeholders to equip girls with mentorship, leadership, digital and vocational skills, warning that child marriage could disrupt their education and limit future opportunities.
The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Alli-Balogun, said girls deserved equal access to quality education and opportunities to pursue careers in STEAM without discrimination.
Similarly, the Deputy Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mojisola Meranda, emphasised the need to protect girls from harmful practices and empower them to make informed decisions about their future.
The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Education, Opeyemi Eniola, highlighted government initiatives, including STEAM programmes, mentorship schemes and an alternative secondary school for girls whose education had been disrupted by early marriage, poverty or teenage pregnancy.
The event also featured sessions on domestic and sexual violence, health and hygiene, facilitated by officials of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency and the state government’s health office.
