Through Sports, Education and Advocacy, Women’s Bodies Renew Call to End Child Marriage and Invest in the Future of Nigerian Girls
By Chioma Vivian James
The National Council of Women Societies (NCWS) Nigeria, in collaboration with the SOHO24 Foundation, has empowered about 500 schoolgirls in Abuja as part of activities marking the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child, reinforcing calls for greater investment in girls’ education, sports development and protection from harmful practices.
The event, held under the theme “Empowering the Girl Child Through Sport Development, Education and Performance,” brought together schoolgirls for an engaging programme designed to promote learning, build confidence, nurture talents and inspire young girls to pursue their dreams.
The initiative was organised by NCWS Nigeria under the leadership of its National President, Princess Edna D. D. Azura, FICAP, in partnership with the SOHO24 Foundation, founded by Ambassador Christy Opara, MON.
The celebration underscored the importance of creating opportunities for girls to thrive academically, socially and physically, while encouraging them to recognise their potential and contribute meaningfully to national development.
A major highlight was a novelty football match between the NCWS Nigeria team and the SOHO24 Foundation team, with the NCWS team emerging victorious. Beyond the excitement of the match, the sporting activity demonstrated how sports can promote teamwork, discipline, confidence and leadership among girls.
In a practical demonstration of their commitment to education, NCWS Nigeria donated 40-leaf exercise books to participating schoolgirls. Ambassador Opara also donated exercise books, complementing efforts to support the girls’ educational needs and encourage continued learning.
Through knowledge-sharing sessions, sports development and educational activities, the SOHO24 Foundation further inspired the participants to discover their talents, develop self-confidence and aspire to brighter futures.
The celebration also drew attention to the urgent need to end child marriage and strengthen efforts to protect girls’ rights, expand access to quality education and create an environment where every girl can grow up safely and fulfil her potential.
NCWS Nigeria, under Princess Azura’s leadership, reaffirmed its commitment to working with foundations, government institutions and other stakeholders to advance the welfare, education and empowerment of Nigerian girls.
The collaboration with SOHO24 Foundation highlights the importance of collective action in addressing the challenges confronting the girl child and building a society where girls are supported to learn, lead and succeed.
As the world marks the International Day of the Girl Child, the message remains clear: empowering girls today is an investment in a stronger, safer and more prosperous Nigeria tomorrow.
