Foundation urges FG to prioritise girl child education, empowerment

AIDS Healthcare Foundation(AHF)has called on the federal government and people in the society to prioritise girls education and empowerment in the country.

The Advocacy and Marketing Manager of AHF, Steve Aborisade, made the call on Monday at the 2024 celebration of International Day of the Girl in Keffi, Nasarawa state.

The event brought together girls from four different communities and students from local high schools as AHF Nigeria provided free sanitary products, introductory lessons on gender-based violence and menstrual health, and launched the Girls Act initiative.

Aborisade explained that empowering girls is not just a moral imperative, but a necessary step towards building a stronger, more equitable society

“We must prioritise their education, healthcare and economic opportunities. We’re proud to provide platforms for girls to take control of their lives.”

Aborisade also called on government and private sector stakeholders to increase funding for girls’ education, healthcare and economic empowerment.

“Government efforts are appreciated, but more needs to be done. Increased support will propel Nigeria forward, unlocking girls’ potential.” He said.

“The Girls Act initiative empowers girls through mentorship, skills training and support networks,” Aborisade explained.”

Similarly, AHF Nasarawa state Clinical Coordinator, Dr Ibrahim Bichi, also noted that the International Day of the Girl is very important because it has been preserved by the United Nations on every 11th of October to celebrate.

He said, education is a critical factor in empowering girls adding that when girls are educated, they are more likely to delay marriage, have fewer children and contribute to the economy and this, in turn, boosts economic growth and reduces poverty.

According to him, ” This is important because we really need to give the chance for all the girls in the country to have equal opportunities that are given to other people, be it a male or a girl, especially in terms of education.

“Nowadays, given by educating a girl child, is that you are educating the community and then you are educating the nation as a whole.

He noted that despite progress, challenges persist, as he added that cultural and societal barriers often hinder girls’ education.

He, however, said the Ministry of Women’s Affairs collaborates with community leaders and local governments to identify and resolve education-related concerns, provide support for girls to return to school and promote girls’ empowerment and education.

Bichi also maintained that community engagement is vital to promoting girls’ education and community leaders play a crucial role in sensitising parents and guardians on the importance of girls’ education.

Meanwhile, the Gender and Human Rights Focal Person Nasarawa State Agency for the control of AIDs(NASACA), Safiya Ibrahim Yahuza, noted that the primary objective of the International Day of the Girl, is to promote equal opportunities for girls and raise awareness about the gender-based inequalities they face.

She said, these inequalities manifest in various forms, including limited access to education, nutrition, legal rights and medical care.

“Girls worldwide are disproportionately affected by discrimination, violence and forced child marriages. It is crucial that we acknowledge and address these challenges to ensure girls’ well-being and empowerment.”

“Today, we unite to amplify girls’ voices, actions and leadership. We strive for a world where girls have equal opportunities to thrive and reach their full potential.”

“The International Day of the Girl Child belongs to everyone who cares about girls’ rights and well-being.”

“Let us come together to support and empower girls, breaking down barriers and fostering a brighter future.

“By celebrating this day, we reaffirm our commitment to promoting girls’ education, health and protection, ultimately shaping a more equitable world for all.” She added.