Young women who were married off as teenagers in Tashan Kangele Community, Maiduguri, Borno State, have appealed to government authorities to improve access to education, describing learning as a pathway to independence, personal development and a better future for their children.
According to Punch, many of the women, who were married between the ages of 13 and 16, said they were unaware of existing adult and second-chance education programmes in the state. They urged the government to establish more learning centres, improve public awareness and address transportation challenges preventing women from returning to school.
The women made the appeal during a media engagement organised by the Participatory Communication for Gender Development (PAGED) Initiative in Maiduguri.
One of the participants, Fatima Umar, 22, disclosed that she got married at the age of 16 and later divorced after expressing her desire to pursue formal education like her husband’s second wife.
She explained that witnessing her co-wife’s achievements inspired her ambition to become educated and financially independent.
“I want to go to school. I crave education,” Fatima said, expressing hope that she could complete her studies before turning 30 and secure meaningful employment to support herself and her son.
Another participant, Maryam Abba, 18, who was married at 14 and is now raising two children, revealed that she had never attended school but would gladly embrace the opportunity if it became available.
She said education would equip her with the knowledge to better care for her children and ensure they also receive formal schooling.
Similarly, Aisha Usman recounted being married at the age of 13 following the death of her mother. She said financial hardship remains the biggest obstacle to achieving her dream of returning to school.
According to Punch, the women stressed that many married girls in their communities remain unaware of educational opportunities specifically designed for women who missed out on formal schooling.
Speaking at the event, Umi Bukar, Programme Director of the PAGED Initiative, warned that denying girls access to education could have long-term social and security consequences.
She argued that educating women is essential to breaking the cycle of illiteracy and ensuring future generations have better opportunities.
Bukar noted that the organisation is committed to amplifying the voices of young women affected by child marriage, enabling them to advocate directly for policies that expand educational access across Northern Nigeria.
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