Nigeria: Plateau Pharmacists Campaign Against Child Marriage, Urge Girl-Child Education

What the report says

The Association of Lady Pharmacists of Nigeria, Plateau State chapter, used an event in Jos, Plateau State, to call for stronger action against child marriage and for greater support for girls’ education and health. The gathering, held at Rochas Foundation College to mark the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child, brought together representatives from several professional and government groups and students from at least seven schools.

According to Premium Times, association leaders said child marriage limits girls’ opportunities and can undermine their future contribution to their families and communities. Speakers urged parents, community leaders and the state government to work together to protect girls’ rights, keep them in school and improve access to healthcare. A state gender official at the event said the government remained committed to enforcing existing protections and addressing gender-based abuse.

The association also tied the campaign to practical support, including the distribution of sanitary pads to more than 300 schoolgirls and talks on menstrual and reproductive health. Organizers said the effort was meant to reduce absenteeism and encourage girls to stay in school. In a broader sense, the event reflected continuing concerns in Nigeria and across parts of Africa about child marriage, girls’ education and access to basic health resources, though the specific article focused on Plateau State and the association’s advocacy.