A human tragedy of grave proportions continues to exist in modern Nigeria.
In the 19 northern states, 48% of all girls are married by the time they reach adolescence. In Kibbe State, girls are married at the age of 11. According to the global partnership Girls Not Brides, if a girl is 15 years old and unwed, the local community starts complaining. The decision to marry is arranged by the parents or relatives. Child brides do not have a say in their marriage. Many girls feel that marriage is inevitable and they have no power and no future.
Three-quarters of all Nigerian child brides cannot read, and it is not required for husbands to look after them. Girls are often vulnerable to domestic violence and severe deprivation.
To read more, follow Marilyn’s story on the Huffington Post: huffingtonpost.com/marilyn-mosley-gordanier