The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has called for strong action to stop child labour, sexual harassment, gender inequality, and forced marriage in Nigeria. He spoke in Abuja during an event to mark the International Day of the Girl Child. The theme for this year was “The girl I am, the change I lead: Girls on the frontlines of crisis.”
The event, called “Girls’ Chat with the Speaker,” was organised by the Speaker’s Office and the House Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development. The Speaker’s wife, Fatima Abbas-Tajudeen, and other leaders were also present.
Ending Sexual Harassment and Abuse
Mr. Tajudeen said the government must do more to end sexual harassment in schools and workplaces. He explained that many female students still face abuse from teachers and school officials. As a former teacher himself, he said such acts are unacceptable and must stop.
He promised that the House of Representatives would support laws that protect students from sexual harassment and ensure that anyone found guilty faces punishment. He also said ending sexual harassment is key to building safer schools and giving girls the confidence to learn.
2026: A Hope for Change
The Speaker said he was proud of how well Nigerian girls are doing in school. He shared that in many schools, girls are now performing better than boys. This, he said, shows the progress made through past campaigns for girl-child education.
However, he noted that child labour still prevents many girls from getting an education. Many girls are sent to work in homes instead of going to school. He urged the National Assembly and the government to take extra steps to end this problem.
Stronger Laws Against Sexual Harassment
Mr. Tajudeen explained that new laws are being planned to help women and girls have more power and safety. One of the bills being discussed in the House will create special seats for women and Persons Living with Disabilities.
He said sexual harassment is not just a school problem—it happens everywhere. He promised that lawmakers will keep working to end all forms of abuse and support awareness campaigns that teach people about respect and safety.
Ten schoolgirls attended the event and asked questions about sexual harassment, child marriage, and the Child’s Rights Act. The Speaker listened and answered each question carefully. He said the House will continue to make laws that protect girls and ensure that their rights are respected.
Omowumi Ogunrotimi, from Gender Mobile Initiative, said the girls who attended represent millions of others who face discrimination and fear daily. She thanked the Speaker for giving them a platform to speak and be heard.
A Call to Action Against Sexual Harassment
During the session, lawmakers were also urged to take more steps to protect girls, especially in areas facing crises and insecurity. Kafilat Ogbara, the Chairperson of the Women Affairs Committee, asked the government and security agencies to act fast to stop violence and sexual harassment against girls.
Conclusion
Sexual harassment remains a serious issue that affects many girls and women in Nigeria. Speaker Abbas Tajudeen’s message reminds everyone that this fight is not just for the government—it is for all citizens. Every girl deserves to feel safe, respected, and free from harm. Together, we can build a society where sexual harassment has no place.
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