The RAFIMAH Youth Child Development and Social Impact Foundation has called on government, parents and other stakeholders to intensify efforts towards protecting the rights of the girl child and providing opportunities for her development.

The Founder of the Foundation, Ambassador Honourable Maimuna Raji Egigogo, made the call in a message to mark the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child, observed annually on October eleventh.

Ambassador Egigogo stressed the need for increased investment in girls’ education, healthcare, safety and leadership development to enable them to realise their full potential and contribute meaningfully to national development.

She noted that every girl deserves access to quality education, a safe environment and equal opportunities to succeed, irrespective of her social or economic background.

The RAFIMAH Foundation Founder also urged parents and community leaders to protect girls against sexual abuse, gender-based violence, exploitation, child marriage and other harmful practices that threaten their wellbeing and future.

She emphasised that empowering the girl child goes beyond celebrating the annual occasion, calling for sustained action to ensure that girls, particularly those from vulnerable communities, are not denied their fundamental rights and opportunities.

Ambassador Egigogo further encouraged stakeholders to promote digital literacy, vocational training, healthcare and leadership opportunities for girls, saying that investing in them would contribute to building stronger families and a more prosperous society.

The Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to child protection, youth development and social impact, urging individuals, organisations and government institutions to work collectively towards creating a society where every girl can live in dignity, safety and fulfilment.

The International Day of the Girl Child is observed every October eleventh to raise awareness of the challenges facing girls and promote the protection of their rights.