Maroc - VERACITY.COM.NG - A La Une - 07/Mar 14:54

NGO raises concern over teenage girls patronizing bars, clubs

A non-governmental organization, My Gender, My Pride Girl Child Initiative, has expressed deep concern over the rising number of teenage girls frequenting bars, clubs, hotels, and lounges across Nigeria. Speaking at a town hall meeting held on February 12, 2024, at Oba Adesanoye Civic Centre, Sabo, Ondo, the organization called for urgent action to curb the trend.The event brought together representatives from the Ministry of Women Affairs, Ondo West Local Government, the Christian Association of Nigeria (Ondo West), Ondo Central Mosque Clerics, and The Movement teams to discuss the alarming issue and propose solutions.Founder and Chief Executive of My Gender, My Pride Girl Child Initiative, Aderonke Ogunlade, described the situation as worrisome, emphasizing the urgent need for collective action. "The increasing number of teenage girls patronizing these places exposes them to exploitation and danger. We cannot afford to ignore this issue," she said.Discussions at the meeting highlighted parental negligence as a key factor, with many participants stressing that a lack of proper home training has left young girls vulnerable to negative influences."Parents must take full responsibility for their children’s upbringing. A girl child should be guided with discipline and moral values from home," one speaker noted.Religious leaders at the event acknowledged that faith-based institutions have not been as vocal as they should be on the matter. A participant stated, "We need to speak more boldly to our girls. The messages from the pulpit must be clear—teaching them about self-worth and the dangers of certain lifestyles."The role of the government was also a major focus, with attendees calling for stricter enforcement of laws that protect teenage girls from exploitation. "Our lawmakers must ensure that policies safeguarding young girls are effectively implemented. Law enforcement agencies also need to play their part in ensuring that these laws are not just on paper," an official said.As part of its commitment to addressing the issue, My Gender, My Pride Girl Child Initiative pledged to intensify awareness campaigns through seminars and educational programs in schools and religious centers. "We will not stop until every girl understands her value and knows how to say no to harmful influences," Ogunlade affirmed.The organizers expressed gratitude to all stakeholders who participated in the meeting, acknowledging their dedication to protecting and empowering teenage girls. They reaffirmed their commitment to continued advocacy and collaboration to ensure a safer and more supportive environment for young girls in society.