The Managing Director of Akmodel Group, Builder (Dr.) Abdulhakeem Odegade, has called for increased investment in girls’ education, protection and empowerment, urging governments, businesses, parents and communities to work together to end child marriage and secure a brighter future for every girl.
In his message commemorating the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child, observed globally on October 11, Odegade emphasised that girls deserve equal opportunities to learn, develop their talents, pursue their ambitions and contribute meaningfully to society.
The theme for this year’s observance, “End Child Marriage and Invest in Girls’ Rights,” underscores the importance of protecting girls from harmful practices while ensuring that they have access to the resources and opportunities needed to fulfil their potential.
Odegade expressed concern over the continued prevalence of child marriage, which deprives millions of girls of their childhood and exposes them to significant educational, health and social challenges.
According to the Akmodel Group MD, this situation requires urgent and sustained attention because the future of any society depends significantly on how it protects, educates and prepares its younger generation.
He stressed that educating girls is not simply a social responsibility but also an investment in human development, economic progress and stronger communities.
“When girls are given access to quality education and opportunities to develop their abilities, they are better positioned to become professionals, entrepreneurs, innovators, community leaders and agents of positive change”, he said.
Odegade noted that businesses and private-sector organisations also have a role to play in supporting initiatives that improve access to education, promote equal opportunities and protect children from exploitation and abuse.
He encouraged corporate organisations to support educational programmes, mentorship opportunities and community-based interventions that help girls remain in school and acquire the knowledge and skills needed to succeed.
The Akmodel Group MD also called on parents, traditional rulers, religious leaders and community stakeholders to reject practices that place girls at risk and instead encourage families to support their daughters’ aspirations.
He emphasised that no girl should be forced into marriage or denied an education because of poverty, gender discrimination or harmful cultural expectations.
While acknowledging the progress made through education, legal reforms and social protection initiatives, Odegade maintained that more work is needed to ensure that girls in vulnerable communities are not left behind.
He urged governments to strengthen child-protection systems, enforce laws against child marriage and expand access to quality education and essential social services, particularly for girls living in disadvantaged and crisis-affected communities.
As the world marks the International Day of the Girl Child, Odegade called on individuals and institutions to translate their support into practical actions that protect girls’ rights and create opportunities for them to thrive.
He reaffirmed the importance of building a society where every girl is valued, protected and empowered to pursue her dreams without fear or discrimination.
Every girl represents a future filled with possibilities. Investing in her education, safety and development is an investment in the progress and prosperity of society.
About Akmodel Group
Akmodel Group is a diversified business group with interests in building construction, real estate investment, farmland investment, oil and gas, and auto care services in different parts of the country (within and outside).
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