In commemoration of International Day of the Girl Child, the founder of She Forum Africa, Mrs. Inimfon Etuk has issued a call to action for governmental bodies to adopt more innovative and effective policies aimed at addressing the ongoing security crisis that disproportionately affects girls and young women.
She explained that the severe impact that such crises have on the lives of girls, who often face increased risks of violence, exploitation, rape, and loss of educational opportunities in unstable environments.
Mrs. Etuk urged policymakers to prioritise the development and implementation of strategies that not only enhance security but also support the empowerment and protection of girls in vulnerable communities.
She made this known at the ‘Adolescents’ Townhall & Mentorship Day event themed “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls On The Frontline Of Crisis,” organised by She Forum Africa in collaboration with the FCTDA Women Affairs & Children Secretariat, the Embassy of Finland, and Pathfinder International in Abuja which welcomed students from various secondary schools across the capital.
Mrs. Etuk emphasised the commitment of She Forum Africa and its partners to assist children from low-income families and marginalised backgrounds by providing scholarships to enhance their access to quality education and vital welfare services.
“As we approach the International Day of the Girl Child in 2025, we urge our government to prioritise the implementation of policies that are crucial for the development of children. These include healthcare, education, infrastructure, and other aspects that significantly enrich lives.”
A secondary school student from Girls Secondary School Kwali, Adeyemo Adepeju, delivered the keynote address, urging parents and the government to take proactive steps in improving the infrastructure and policies that support girl-child education.
She encouraged her peers to embrace their potential, drawing inspiration from global figures like Malala Yousafzai and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who have made remarkable contributions to society. “The girl I am does not wait for change; I am the change. My voice has the power to influence nations. Investing in a girl is investing in the future of our nation,” she concluded.
The trade officer at the Embassy of Finland, Maria Ruuskanen, stated that Finland has recognised that empowering girls and women is essential for fostering peaceful, prosperous, and resilient societies. “We will continue our global efforts, including support for girls’ education in Nigeria, to promote gender equality and ensure every girl lives free from violence and discrimination. Remember, dear girls, you are not only the leaders of tomorrow but the leaders of today,” she emphasised.
Representing the Mandate Secretary for Women and Children FCTDA, Dr Adedayo Benjamin-Laniyi, the director of child development FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, Idris Yahaya announced a significant milestone: for the first time, the Federal Capital Territory will commemorate the Day of Adolescent Girls on October 10, as approved by the Honourable Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
She noted that this year’s International Day for the Girl Child aligns perfectly with their mission to promote the welfare of women and children, including adolescents and those with disabilities in the federal capital territory.
“As we celebrate this meaningful theme, we recognise the vital contributions of adolescent girls in shaping their futures and communities. Our Secretariat is dedicated to creating opportunities for girls to thrive, grow, and make positive impacts in society,” she concluded.
