From Jude Dangwam, Jos

The International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Nigeria has called on religious leaders in Plateau state to step up in speaking and condemning the menace of early marriage among girls in their congregation.

The Country Vice President/National President Eliana Martins was represented by the FIDA Chairperson Plateau State, Nankus Fyaktu at the end of a two-day engagement with religious leaders held at Villa Grand Hotel in Jos the Plateau State capital.

She insisted that places of worship must not serve as safe haven for perpetrators of child abuse, a trend that is punishable by law of the country.

“We have brought religious leaders together for dialogue on how we can work toward ending gender-based violence, particularly forms that affect children such as early marriage, rape and other abuses.

“Our goal is to leverage their pulpits, sermons and teachings to address these issues because, in reality, many of these problems are rarely discussed in religious spaces. These acts are happening within our communities, affecting members sitting in our Churches and Mosques, yet the issues remain silent and unaddressed.

“So, this initiative seeks to change that by creating safe spaces in Churches, Mosques, and theological schools to openly discuss gender-based violence. We are focusing specifically on child protection, with particular attention to early marriage, which has become a growing concern in our communities.

“Despite clear laws defining the legal age of adulthood and marriage, many young girls are still being married off before age 18. This practice is illegal and harmful, with serious consequences on their physical health, mental well-being, and overall development,” she expressed concerns,

The President noted that the initiative is expected to develop strategies that will help religious leaders return to their congregations and speak boldly against those practices.

“We want them to educate their members on what the law says, why early marriage is prohibited, and the dangers children face when subjected to it. We want society to understand clearly that early marriage is no longer acceptably.

“It is illegal, and the law provides punishment for anyone who participates including those who arrange, officiate, or facilitate such marriages. Anyone found involved will be held accountable,” she caution

The Assistant Manager, Programs and Partnerships FIDA Nigeria Rita Abah maintained that some of the reinforcement comes from religious spaces and religious leaders who ought to serve as advocates against the menace.

“Some religious leader who should be advocating for protection end up encouraging early marriage under the belief that it prevents promiscuity. They argue that if a girl is married young, she will remain ‘pure,’ and her first and only partner will be her husband. So, for them, it becomes an issue of honour and family reputation.

“But we are here to challenge that thinking because these beliefs are harming young girls and robbing them of their rights, their health, and their futures.” He stated

Some of the beneficiaries Andullahi Isa Yusuf is an Imam and a teacher who Command Secondary School Jos, Rev Ibrahim Maikudi Sani of First Baptist Church GWASH and Hajiya Zainab from JNI noted that engagement is extremely important and impactful.

“What FIDA has done by bringing both Muslims and Christians together to discuss this issue is powerful. Now, each of us will return to our communities and step down the knowledge. With united advocacy, our voices will be stronger, and more people will begin to understand the dangers and consequences of early marriage.”

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the safety and well-being of children by enhancing child protection mechanisms and advancing Child Rights Initiatives.

Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, stated this while commemorating the Universal Day of the Child and launching the State of the Nigerian Girl Report 2025 on Wednesday in Abuja.

Organised in collaboration with Save the Children International (SCI), the event emphasised the need to honour Nigerian children and recognise their positive contributions to society.

Represented by Dr. Maryam Keshinro, the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, the Minister highlighted the importance of documentation in child protection and noted ongoing government efforts to address rising out-of-school numbers and respond to the recent abduction of schoolgirls.

She further stressed the creation of safe spaces in schools, the review of child-related policies, and the nationwide implementation of the Child Rights Act.

Country Director of SCI, Duncan Harvey, highlighted progress in reducing child marriage rates and called for increased investment in children’s rights, education, and health.

Speaker of the Nigerian National Children’s Parliament, Progress Umo urged government and stakeholders to prioritise school security and create safe learning environments.

Dean of Commissioners of Women Affairs and Commissioner for Cross Rivers State, Edema Irom, emphasised that child protection should be a national priority, calling for collaboration between state and non-state actors.

The event underlined the collective responsibility of government, NGOs, and communities to ensure that all children are safe, empowered, and able to thrive academically and socially in Nigeria.

From Nicholas Dekera, Kaduna

The Northern chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has condemned the rising wave of insecurity across the country, describing recent incidents as painful reminders of the severe security challenges confronting both citizens and security personnel.

The association expressed deep sorrow over the recent attack on a Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) in Kwara State, which left worshippers killed and several abducted.

It also condemned the killing of a senior military officer, a General, in Borno State by ISWAP terrorists, and the abduction of school children in Kebbi State.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Chairman of Northern CAN, Rev.

Joseph John Hayab, said the association stands in full solidarity with the victims, their families, and the affected communities during this difficult period.

He noted that the pain and trauma experienced by families who have lost loved ones or have children in captivity cannot be overstated. Rev. Hayab stressed that Northern CAN is praying for comfort for the bereaved, divine healing for the injured, and the safe return of all abducted persons.

While commending the Nigerian Armed Forces for their sacrifices, the association warned that the resurgence of terror attacks appears to be a deliberate attempt to further destabilise the country. It urged the military not to allow these incidents to dampen their morale.

Rev. Hayab called on the new security chiefs and troops to intensify their operations and demonstrate a renewed determination to defeat insurgents, bandits, and other criminal networks threatening national peace.

He further appealed to the Federal Government to redouble its efforts in securing schools, worship centres, and vulnerable communities. According to him, Nigerians expect decisive action to ensure that those behind these heinous crimes are arrested and prosecuted, giving victims the assurance that justice will be served.

Northern CAN condemned the attacks in their entirety, describing them as unacceptable acts of evil that must not be allowed to fester. The association called for stronger collaboration between security agencies, state governments, and community structures to prevent further tragedies.