Three Nigerian teenage girls have launched a global petition against the age of consent, after UNICEF revealed Nigeria had some of the highest numbers of child marriages. The petition was created to raise awareness and improve gender rights.

According to UNICEF, Nigeria has the 11^th highest percentage of child marriages in the world. 44% of the female population are already married by the age of 18.

Currently in Nigeria, there are two contradicting stances about child marriages and age of consent. Although the Child Rights Act, which was passed in 2003 states that the age of consent in Nigeria is 18, only 25 out of 36 states have adapted this law.

But the constitution also states that any woman who is married can be deemed an adult. This means that children as young as 11 years old can get married without any restrictions.

According to these figures, 15% of the female population are married off before their 15^thbirthday.

“It’s Never Your Fault” is a non-government organisation created by Kudirat Abiola, Susan Udogu and Temitayo Asuni. They singlehandedly started a campaign to help draw the general public’s attention to this matter.

16-year-old, Kudirat Abiola talks about the passion behind this campaign and how this campaign could help bring change.

“Gender Equality is something we are passionate about, as young teenage girls so we decided to continue our project and create an NGO to make it official.”

“Our name is dedicated to these girls and tells them that whatever happens, “It is never their fault” We would help change the mentality of the society and get them back to being themselves.”

They are currently working with a constitutional lawyer to help draft an amendment, which would be presented to the National Assembly of Nigeria.

Susan Udogu, a member of the organisation explains how gender equality could be achieved in Nigeria.

“We need to teach women that they can be more than what society expects them to be. We also need to teach men that women need to be respected and be given equal footing.”

Women for Women international, is a charity group that supports women living in dangerous places. This organisation has helped empower women in Nigeria and other African countries through acquisition of skills and knowledge.

Jenny rose, the press officer points out that due to limited access to health services and education, Nigerian women struggle to gain economic opportunities and equality.

She also states how certain practices encourage child marriage in Nigeria.

“Common discriminatory practices, amplified by extremist groups, subject women and girls to dangers, including forced early marriage and the possibility they will face violence for going to school.”

To sign this petition click HERE