By Mubarak Aliyu kobi
The Bauchi State First Lady, Hajiya Aishatu Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, has called on parents, religious leaders, and communities to unite in ending the rising cases of girl-child street hawking across the state.
Hajiya Aishatu made the call during a one-day sensitisation programme organised by the Bauchi State Shari’a Commission in collaboration with the Almuhibbah Foundation.
The event was aimed at addressing the growing concerns over the welfare, safety, and future of young girls who are exposed to dangers while hawking on the streets.
The First Lady attributed the increasing rate of street hawking among girls to poverty, lack of parental care, and moral decline within families.
She expressed worry that many young girls are being pushed into hawking because their parents, especially fathers, have failed to take responsibility for their upbringing and welfare.
Hajiya Aishatu reminded men that Islam commands them to provide food, clothing, and shelter for their families. She stressed that neglecting these duties exposes children to hardship, exploitation, and social vices.
According to her, men should not marry beyond their means, as Islam only permits multiple marriages when one has the financial and moral capacity to care for all dependents.
The First Lady further urged mothers to play supportive roles in raising disciplined and responsible children, noting that educating girls yields greater benefits for families and society than sending them to hawk. She said street hawking exposes girls to moral corruption, harassment, and sexual exploitation, which can destroy their future.
Hajiya Aishatu condemned the increasing cases of harassment and abuse of young girls on the streets, describing the trend as a reflection of society’s moral decay.
She called on parents to protect their children from such dangers and ensure that they grow in a safe and nurturing environment.
She also charged religious and traditional leaders to intensify efforts in sensitising their followers on the dangers of child hawking and the importance of girl-child education. According to her, faith and community leaders play a critical role in shaping public behaviour and must use their influence to safeguard the dignity of the girl-child.
The Bauchi First Lady urged mothers to educate their daughters on personal hygiene and moral values to prevent early sexual exposure and unwanted pregnancies.
She emphasised the need for families to prioritise girl-child education, empowerment, and healthcare instead of early marriage or unsafe home deliveries, saying these steps are vital for building a healthy and prosperous society.
