The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mariya Mahmoud has called for the continued protection of female children against inhuman practices in Nigeria.
She made the call while speaking at the FCT Adolescent Girl Child Day celebration in Abuja Nigeria’s capital.
Mahmoud urged stakeholders to do more in building a future where every girl child feels safe, valued, and empowered.
The Minister said stakeholders should continue to work together to end gender-based violence, address harmful traditional practices, and create opportunities for leadership and growth.
She explained that the 2024 celebration is a testament to the successes of government efforts to provide a safer environment for girl child development.
According to her, one of the highlights of this year’s campaign has been the inclusion of 310 adolescent boys, referred to as “guides,” to support and mentor 310 Orange Girls drawn from the six Area Councils of the FCT.
The approach, she said is an innovative approach to emphasize the need for boys and men to be active allies in the fight against gender-based violence, promoting unity and shared responsibility.
“I commend the FCTA Women Affairs Secretariat for organizing this transformative event and for their commitment to the 16 Days of Activism to End Gender-Based Violence.
“This global campaign, championed by our Secretariat, is a bold and necessary initiative, and I am proud of the impact it has made so far.
“Additionally, the sensitization efforts on harmful traditional practices that hinder the progress of gender equality and the fight against gender-based violence have been remarkable. These practices, deeply rooted in cultural norms, often pose significant barriers to the freedom and development of our girls. Tackling these issues requires collective effort, and the dialogue fostered by the Secretariat is a vital step forward.
“The focus on leadership and advocacy has also been exemplary. Empowering our girls with leadership skills and encouraging them to advocate for their rights not only transforms their lives but also strengthens our communities. When girls lead, society progresses.
“let us reaffirm our commitment to building a future where every girl child feels safe, valued, and empowered. Let us continue to work together to end gender-based violence, address harmful traditional practices, and create opportunities for leadership and growth”
In her remarks, the Mandate Secretary, Women Affairs Secretariat, Adedayo Benjamins -Laniyi disclosed that it is an inter-gender program catching them young to end violence against women and children, is a celebration of new things and new beginnings.
“We carry it as a movement of connecting action, giving voice and giving a pedigree to the adolescent movement of ending violence against women and girls through the interconnection of genders with boys and men.
“These children are from the six area councils, from the 884 communities 62 wards of the FCT.”
PIAK
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