As the world marks the International Day of the Girl Child, Ladyann Oluwatosin Crown, founder of 1242 Initiatives, has called for greater protection of girls’ rights, access to education and opportunities to develop their potential, warning against practices that limit their aspirations.
Crown, in a statement to mark the annual observance, said no girl should be forced into child marriage, confined to household chores or raised solely for marriage and motherhood at the expense of her education and personal development.
She stressed that every girl deserves the opportunity to learn, dream, grow and live free from discrimination, abuse and restrictive societal expectations.
According to her, empowering girls requires deliberate efforts by parents, guardians, schools, religious leaders and society to protect their dignity, nurture their abilities and ensure that their voices are heard.
“Never deny a girl the right to education. Equip her with knowledge and skills so she can fulfil her potential. Protect her so she can grow in safety and preserve her dignity,” she said.
Crown noted that encouraging girls to speak confidently and listening to their concerns would strengthen their self-confidence and prepare them to challenge injustice and contribute meaningfully to society.
She added that an empowered girl could raise awareness among her peers and guide children facing harm towards trusted adults capable of protecting them.
The 1242 Initiatives founder said the process of empowerment should begin at home, with parents who are attentive and willing to listen, and continue in schools where girls are encouraged to ask questions and express their ideas.
She also urged society to recognise, nurture and value girls’ abilities, noting that girls who understand the importance of their voices are better equipped to recognise injustice, seek help when necessary and respect the rights of others.
Crown maintained that marriage and motherhood should not be used to restrict girls’ ambitions or deny them opportunities to acquire life skills, pursue their dreams and contribute to national development.
“A girl deserves more than preparation for marriage and motherhood. She deserves education, life skills, opportunities, and the freedom to discover and fulfil her God-given potential,” she said.
She called on parents, guardians and religious leaders to raise girls who are confident enough to speak, willing to listen, courageous enough to stand for what is right and compassionate enough to respect the dignity of others.
According to her, investing in girls’ education and empowerment would help prepare them not only to build homes but also to shape communities, lead, innovate and contribute to the nation’s future.
“When we invest in our girls today, we invest in a stronger, safer, and more equitable tomorrow,” she said.
Crown founded 1242 Initiatives to champion the rights, dignity, education and empowerment of children and young people, advocating a future in which every child is protected, heard and empowered to fulfil their potential.
