Gloria Diri, the spouse of Bayelsa State Governor, addressed mothers and guardians during the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child ceremony in Yenagoa, urging them to take a proactive role in the schooling, personal growth and moral guidance of teenage girls to stop child marriage and secure their futures.
What was the event about?
The celebration, organised by the Voice of the Ijaw Girl Child (VIJGC) in partnership with the Stemick Skars Foundation – formerly the Gloria Diri Foundation – carried the theme “Empowering her future: End child marriage, invest in girls’ rights”. It was held at the Chief D.S.P. Alamieyeseigha Banquet Hall, Government House, Yenagoa.
Key points raised by the first lady
- Mothers were described as the “first line of defence” against early marriage, peer pressure, drug abuse and other harmful practices.
- Diri encouraged girls to speak up whenever their rights are threatened and called on parents to educate and empower their daughters.
- She quoted, “Your daughter is your walking stick at old age, and so support her, educate her, empower her.”
- The speaker added that every girl must take responsibility for her future and believe in her ability to succeed.
What did other speakers emphasize?
Dr. Antonia Ganah and Dr. Bumak Tonye Mieyabei, chairperson of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA) Bayelsa State chapter, urged parents and stakeholders to create safe environments where girls can report abuse without fear. They affirmed that girls have equal rights in the family and society and deserve protection from sexual, verbal, physical and emotional violence.
How can girls be supported?
The speakers highlighted the importance of self‑confidence, parental backing and a secure home setting as essential ingredients for girls to thrive and defend their rights. They also warned against drug abuse, premarital sex and negative peer influences, urging girls to stay focused on their aspirations.
Community perspective
Mrs. Timi Prayer Tubi, convener and executive director of VIJGC, reiterated that every girl, irrespective of background or circumstance, deserves the chance to learn, develop her potential and pursue her dreams. She called on society to deliberately protect, nurture and invest in the future of the girl child.
Local relevance
Tubi noted that the global celebration’s message was adapted to tackle challenges specific to the Niger Delta, especially teenage pregnancy and its link to early child marriage. She identified poverty and the heavy burden placed on families as key drivers of these issues in Bayelsa State.
The gathering concluded with a collective pledge to strengthen education, raise awareness and build supportive networks that empower girls across the region.