Every year, thousands of women all over the World gather to celebrate womanhood and address various problems affecting us, such as social [gender inequality], economic [poverty], and cultural [early marriages] problems, and also issues relating to their sexual reproductive health and rights.

Focusing on Africa, and specifically Nigeria, women’s rights have been infringed upon in various ways.  Young women and girls are particularly vulnerable. For example, in some parts of Nigeria, girls are still being denied formal education because it is regarded as a waste of time and resources, while the male child is allowed to attain formal education. This singular act shows gender inequality, even though it is stated in the 2003 Child’s Rights Act (CRA) that every child has the right to education irrespective of their sex. The Nigerian constitution and the Universal Basic Education (UBE) Act further buttress the right of every chid to education irrespective of gender. Furthermore, there are a lot of cases where young girls below the age of 18 are handed over for marriage, mostly against their will, and mostly to far older men. This is because they are regarded as a source of wealth or income from suitors to their family.

Imagine a young teenage girl being given out for marriage and eventually getting pregnant; at this stage the child is not emotionally or psychologically ready for motherhood. In many cases complications arise, such as vesicovaginal fistula (VVF), or even death. There are also cases of child labour and girl trafficking, where girls are used as sex workers, and a high prevalence of FGM (female genital mutilation), also referred to as female circumcision; Nigeria has the highest number of FGM cases in the World. All of these issues impede the growth of the nation, and World at large. The importance of women in government and all areas of life cannot be over-emphasised. Women of the World, irrespective of their race or colour, deserve equal rights and the opportunity to make a difference in our world today. Full access to education must be prioritised for young girls and women. This will prevent child marriages and many other sexual and reproductive health consequences that arise as a result of deprived rights. Securing peace, social progress, fundamental human rights and freedom requires active participation of women of all ages.

As a young woman l know l count in the scheme of things and the development of this country and so does every young girl. We can not wait to be given the opportunity we must take it and make the difference we seek. If we can all learn our voices to the truth that our participation in governance can counts, the unity in our voices in Nigeria, Africa, Europe, Asia or America, will take us all to the land of promise. Giving equal right and opportunities can give us all the progress we desire in our world today!!!