UC Santa Barbara

Child marriage remains a persistent global issue, with sub-Saharan Africa witnessing some of the highest prevalence rates. Despite numerous international legal frameworks and organizational interventions aimed at eradicating the practice, progress has been uneven and often slow, particularly in regions like Nigeria where socio-cultural and religious norms intersect with weak institutional capacities. This study critically assesses the effectiveness of international organizations in addressing child marriage in Nigeria, situating the discussion within global, regional, and local contexts. Drawing on feminist theory and culturally sensitive approach, it explores the complex interplay of gender inequality, poverty, and cultural traditions that sustain early marriage practices. Through qualitative research involving semi-structured interviews with NGO representatives, current and former child brides, and parents, the study uncovers both the successes and limitations of international interventions. Findings highlight that while organizations such as UNICEF, Girls Not Brides, and FIDA Nigeria have made important strides in legal advocacy, education initiatives, and community mobilization, their efforts are often constrained by entrenched social norms, limited local ownership, and uneven policy enforcement. The research concludes by offering policy recommendations aimed at bridging the gap between international mandates and local realities, emphasizing the need for more context-sensitive, participatory, and sustainable strategies in the fight to end child marriage.