A former Inspector General of Police, Mr. Mike Okiro has urged stakeholders to prioritise the welfare, education, and protection of the girl child in Nigeria.
Okiro warned that neglecting them could hinder the nation’s development.
He made the call at Inauguration of the Noble Ladies Association, in Abuja given the productive nature of the girl children and their distinct nature.
Mr. Okiro also called for the abolishment of some cultural practices that diminish women in the society, explaining that the inauguration of the Noble Ladies Association would create additional impact on the life of the girl child in Nigeria.
In her keynote address at the event, titled “Issues Affecting Girl Child In Nigeria,”the leader of the Noble Ladies Association, Mrs. Gloria Essien-Uno said that the girl child in Nigeria face numerous challenges such as limited access to education, early marriages and unplanned pregnancy, among others.
“Many girls are forced into early marriage, which often leads to early pregnancy and dropping out of school. This perpetuates the cycle of poverty and limits their opportunities.
“Sexual Exploitation and Trafficking Girls are vulnerable to sexual exploitation and trafficking, which can lead to serious health risks and long-term consequences amongst others,” she said.
Government initiatives
She however stated that despite the challenges, there are efforts underway to support the girl child in Nigeria which includes government initiatives like the launch of programs such as the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE).
“Some notable individuals and organisations are also advocating for the girl child. The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has emphasised the importance of education for girls and women, highlighting its impact on societal progress,” she said.
She encouraged the associations to play a vital role in supporting the girl child in Nigeria by making positive impacts.
“The Noble Ladies can provide access to quality education, literacy programs, and educational materials to girls in underserved communities.
…Scholarships and Financial Support: Your association can offer scholarships, grants, or financial assistance to girls who cannot afford education due to poverty or other circumstances.
“Mentorship and Role Models: Pair girls with positive role models or mentors who can inspire, guide, and support them in their educational and personal journeys.
“Skills Development: Provide vocational training or skills development programs that equip girls with practical skills, such as coding, entrepreneurship, or crafts,” She noted.
She said that by taking the above steps, the association can help empower the girl child in Nigeria and support their development, education, and future prospects.
Historic moment
In her remarks, the President and Founder of the Noble Ladies Association, Lady Margret Mkpuma described the occasion as an historic moment.
She said that it brings together a dynamic circle of thought leaders, change-makers, and pioneering voices who are redefining what leadership looks like in a rapidly changing world.
“We gather here under one roof to celebrate Women’s Leadership and Impact and to proudly introduce a groundbreaking publication that is more than just a magazine. Women of Impact is a bold movement, a platform & spotlight. It is a vibrant voice dedicated to amplifying the stories, triumphs, innovations, and everyday heroism of women who are not only breaking barriers but building bridges for others to cross,” she explained.
The occasion was also used to unveil the Noble Ladies Association Magazine to the public and also a call to action. It is an invitation to recognize, uplift, and invest in the women who are shaping our present and reimagining our future. Whether in business, education, science, governance, social justice, the arts, or community development.
“Together, let us celebrate this new beginning. Together, let us honour these women who lead with heart, lead with fire, and lead with impact,” he said.
The theme of the Noble Ladies Association event is ‘Women Leading the way: Inspiring Impact Through Innovation and Collaboration.’
Lateefah Ibrahim