Speaker Advocates Tougher Measures To End Child Labour, Gender Inequality

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr Abbas Tajudeen, has called for tougher measures to end child labour, sexual harassment, gender inequality, and forced marriage.

Speaking in Abuja at an event to mark the International Day of the Girl Child, Dr Abbas said many young girls across the country still face discrimination and abuse that deny them education and opportunities to succeed.

The event, tagged “Girls’ Chat with the Speaker,” brought together schoolgirls from across Nigeria for an interactive session at the National Assembly.

It was organised by the Speaker’s Office in partnership with the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development.

Dr Abbas said he was alarmed that child labour remains widespread, especially in cities where young girls are sent to work as domestic staff.

“We must ensure that no girl under a certain age is found working as a domestic servant,” he said.

“They are being denied education and opportunities to succeed. The government must act to stop this.”

The Speaker noted that while public awareness has helped reduce child marriage, more still needs to be done in rural areas where girls lack access to education.

“It is gladdening to see that girls are doing better academically than boys in many schools,” he said.

“That is a promising sign that our efforts to promote girls’ education are paying off.”

On the issue of sexual harassment, Dr Abbas said the National Assembly would work closely with the executive arm of government to enforce existing laws and punish offenders.

The Speaker also revealed that lawmakers are considering a bill to reserve seats for women and persons with disabilities in parliament to promote inclusion in governance.

During the interactive session, the girls asked questions on child marriage, safety in schools, gender equality, and the enforcement of the Child Rights Act.

Dr Abbas assured them that the legislature will continue to make laws protecting the rights of women and children, while urging government agencies to ensure effective implementation.

This year’s International Day of the Girl Child is themed “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls on the Frontlines of Crisis.””

The day observed globally on October 11, aims to celebrate the resilience and leadership of girls while drawing attention to the barriers they face.

Oduyemi Odumade, Edited By Grace Namiji