Daud Olatunji
As Nigeria joins the global community to celebrate the International Day of the Girl Child on October 11, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has raised the alarm that 75 per cent of new HIV infections among adolescents globally occurred in girls.
Celine Lafoucriere, Chief of UNICEF Field Office for South West Nigeria disclosed this in a statement to newsmen to mark the 2024 International Day of the Girl.
Lafoucriere, who described the theme of this year, “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” as apt, noted that it reflected the findings from a UNICEF analysis, which showed that girls are not only courageous in the face of challenges but hopeful for the future.
According to UNICEF Chief, one in five young women aged 20-24 was married as a child, while one in four adolescent girls who are married or in a partnership has experienced sexual or physical abuse.
She said “globally, 75 per cent of new HIV infections among adolescents occur in girls, further exacerbating the health risks they face.
“In addition, one in three adolescent girls suffers from anaemia, a severe form of malnutrition.”
Lafoucriere highlighted the stark contrast between boys and girls, stating that almost double the number of adolescent girls compared to boys are neither in school, nor engaged in employment or training.
She said this lack of opportunities only deepens the cycle of poverty and inequality for girls.
She issued a clarion call for increased efforts to safeguard the rights of girls.
Lafoucriere emphasised the critical need for empowering girls and ensuring their equal access to education, healthcare, and opportunities, in her message marking the day.
This year’s theme, “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” stressed both the challenges and the resilience of young girls.
According to a UNICEF analysis, despite the immense hurdles many girls face, they remain hopeful and determined to shape a better future.
Lafoucriere lamented that millions of girls globally are denied basic rights, a situation that stunts their potential.
“Being a girl should not determine one’s future. However, right now, millions of girls worldwide are being left behind, confronted with extreme challenges that deny them their rights, restrict their choices, and limit their futures,” she said.
… ‘Change is Possible’ – A Call For Allies
Despite these daunting statistics, Lafoucriere remains optimistic, stressing that change is attainable if the global community steps up.
“Girls alone cannot bring about the desired change. They need allies—like you and me—who listen to and respond to their needs,” she said. “Together, we can build a future where every girl’s rights are protected.”
Lafoucriere emphasised that with the right support, resources, and opportunities, the potential of girls is limitless.
“Evidence shows that when girls achieve their goals, we all move closer to achieving our global goals,” she remarked, calling on individuals, organizations, and governments to join the cause.
…Investing In Girls Is Investing In The Future
The UNICEF Chief urged stakeholders to take concrete actions to protect girls’ rights, promote their education, and empower them to reach their full potential.
“By investing in girls, we invest in a brighter future for all,” Lafoucriere said. She stressed that girls should not be defined by their gender, but by their ambitions and abilities.
This year’s theme, “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” was particularly apt, she noted, as it reflects the findings of the UNICEF analysis showing that girls remain hopeful for a brighter tomorrow despite the barriers they face today.
“We see girls taking action every day to realize the vision of a world where all girls are protected, respected, and empowered,” she said.
… The Urgency of Advocacy
October 11 has become a global moment to amplify the voices of girls and celebrate their achievements, as well as to advocate for their rights.
Lafoucriere emphasised that the day belongs to everyone who cares about girls and is committed to advocating for their rights.
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