ASABA/Nigeria: A member of the Delta State Child Rights Implementation Committee and child protection advocate, Comrade Patrick Ochei, has called on governments at all levels to formulate policies focused on moral education, sex education, and entrepreneurship training as essential components of the Girl-Child education policy.
Speaking in commemoration of the International Day of the Girl-Child, Ochei, who is also a journalist, stressed the importance of equipping girls with the necessary tools to handle societal pressures, particularly those linked to their development. He highlighted the dangers posed by irresponsible men who prey on young girls, emphasizing that early moral and sex education could empower girls to make informed decisions.
“By consciously introducing moral lessons, sex education, and entrepreneurship training early in life, girls can be better prepared to face life’s prospects and challenges,” Ochei remarked. He added that such early education would help girls resist peer pressure and social vices, including the temptation of early sexual activity and the reckless pursuit of materialism.
Ochei expressed concern over the growing trend of indecent dressing, the obsession with wealth, and a reckless lifestyle among young girls, warning that without urgent intervention from the government and religious organizations, the situation would continue to deteriorate. He further called for increased awareness to ensure that girls understand the importance of maintaining high moral standards and actively engaging in skill development alongside their formal education.
In his advocacy, Ochei also urged parents to take a proactive role in educating their daughters about sex from an early age. “Parents must teach their daughters how to protect themselves from sexual harassment and encourage them to speak out when they are molested,” he said. He noted that young girls are often vulnerable to abuse and intimidation and must be equipped to defend themselves in such situations.
The activist emphasized the need for government-backed policies to protect the Girl-Child, calling for strict enforcement of Child Rights laws. “Justice must be served to those who violate the rights of the Girl-Child, and offenders must be held accountable, regardless of their status in society,” Ochei asserted.
He also appealed to the Delta State House of Assembly to expedite the passage of the Child Rights Amendment Bill, 2024, to strengthen child protection laws. He urged the federal government to review and improve the Child Rights Act of 2003 to address current challenges and provide optimal protection for the Girl-Child.
“The way we nurture the Girl-Child in Nigeria will shape the future of our society,” Ochei concluded. “A properly raised girl becomes a responsible woman and mother, capable of training future leaders who will steer our nation toward responsible governance and development.”
