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The United Nations Children’s Fund says 75 per cent of new HIV infections among adolescents globally occurred in girls.
Chief of UNICEF Field Office for South West Nigeria, Celine Lafoucriere,disclosed this in a statement to mark the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child.
Lafoucriere, who described the theme of this year, “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” as apt, noted that it reflected the findings from a UNICEF analysis, which showed that girls are not only courageous in the face of challenges but hopeful for the future.
She noted that the number of adolescent girls (one in four) was almost double the number of boys who were not in any form of education, employment, or training.
She also added that one in five young women aged between 20 and 24 years today were married as children, while nearly one in four partnered/married adolescent girls have experienced sexual or physical abuse.
The chief of UNICEF’s Field Office for South West Nigeria, however, pointed out that girls were seen taking action every day to realise the vision of a world where all girls are protected, respected, and empowered.
“As you well know, October 11 is a key global moment to celebrate girls and amplify their voices, actions, and leadership. The day also belongs to everyone who cares about girls and taking action to advocate for the full spectrum of girls’ rights.
“My response is that being a girl shouldn’t determine what you can do, where you can go, or who you can become. But right now, that is the reality for millions of girls across the world.
“Too many are being left behind, confronted by extreme challenges that deny them their rights, restrict their choices, and limit their futures.
“However, girls alone cannot bring about the desired change. They need allies who listen to and respond to their needs like you and me. Together, we can build a future in which every girl’s rights are protected,” she said.
Lafoucriere further opined that evidence had shown that with the right support, resources, and opportunities, the potential of girls around the world is limitless.
She stated that when girls achieve their goals, “we all move closer to achieving our global goals.”
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