Nigeria: Students at Top Klas Academy Raise Their Voices Against Child Marriage

On 12 January 2026, a school outreach session was held at Top Klas Academy in Kabala, Nigeria, as part of the 100 Days of Action to End Child Marriage. The activity focused on helping students understand the harmful impacts of child marriage and the importance of collective action to prevent it. The outreach prioritised engagement with community schools, recognising that children from low income families are often at greater risk of early and forced marriage.

The session was led by Ms Aisha Naseer, Head Teacher of the school, who guided students through an open and engaging discussion. She spoke about how child marriage can affect a child’s education, health, and future opportunities, and emphasised that every child has the right to grow, learn, and make their own choices about their future.

A total of 25 students took part in the session. At the end of the discussion, 23 students took the pledge to stand against child marriage, showing growing awareness and commitment among young people to protect themselves and their peers.

Both teachers and students shared a sense of pride in learning more about the issue and in becoming part of a wider movement for change. Participants spoke about how understanding the impact of child marriage on girls, in particular, helped them recognise the importance of education and equal opportunities.

This outreach at Top Klas Academy highlights the important role schools play in prevention efforts. By creating safe spaces for dialogue and learning, school communities are helping build confidence, knowledge, and leadership among students as part of the global effort to end child marriage.