INTERNATIONAL DAY OF THE GIRL CHILD 2026: CAIDOV CELEBRATES THE GIRL CHILD, CALLS FOR NATIONWIDE CAMPAIGN AGAINST SEXUAL AND DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
The Centre Against Injustice and Domestic Violence (CAIDOV) has felicitated with the Nigerian girl child as the world marks the International Day of the Girl Child 2026
In a statement issued by Gbenga Soloki its Executive Director to commemorate the day, CAIDOV described the girl child as a symbol of hope, strength and the future of the nation, but lamented that millions of girls in Nigeria still suffer in silence due to sexual abuse, domestic violence, child marriage and cultural discrimination.
According to CAIDOV, the theme of this year’s celebration must go beyond speeches and must translate into concrete actions to protect girls from predators both at home and in society.
“It is painful that the home, which should be the safest place for a girl, has become a place of fear for many. Fathers, uncles, neighbours and even teachers have turned into abusers. The culture of silence, stigmatization of victims and slow justice system have emboldened perpetrators. This must stop,” the statement said.
CAIDOV therefore called for a national campaign against all forms of sexual and domestic violence in schools, markets, worship centres and communities,while there should be Mandatory reporting and protection mechanism for teachers and guardians
Moreover, CAIDOV advised speedy trial and naming-and-shaming of convicted sexual offenders, as well as Increased funding for shelters, counselling and legal support for survivors.
The Centre reaffirmed its commitment to continue offering legal assistance, psychosocial support and advocacy for victims of domestic and sexual violence across Lagos and Nigeria.
CAIDOV urged every girl child to speak up, report abuse, and not be ashamed, assuring them that help is available and justice is possible.
“Every girl deserves to grow without fear, to learn without intimidation, and to dream without limitations. Protecting her from violence is not charity, it is justice.”
