UNICEF's Dr. Rafique Advocates for Girls' Rights Action

During the commemoration of the International Day of the Girl Child, Dr. Nuzhat Rafique, Chief of UNICEF Bauchi Field Office, urged for stronger collective action to end child marriage and empower girls. The event took place at Maidugu Hotel, Gombe, and was organized under the theme “End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights.” Dr. Rafique noted that millions of girls worldwide continue to face discrimination, violence, and poverty, which limit their opportunities.

UNICEF estimates indicate that one in five girls globally is married before age 18, totaling approximately 650 million women and girls. Each year, over 12 million girls are married before adulthood, with sub-Saharan Africa having the highest prevalence at 31 percent.

Dr. Rafique expressed concern about the impact of crises on girls, increasing their vulnerability to child marriage and violence. She called for sustained investment in girls’ education and collaboration with communities to challenge harmful social norms.