The Helpline Social Support Initiative (HSSI) has dedicated its 2026 commemoration of the International Day of the Girl Child to the memory of Hon. Sakinah Suleiman, a former Speaker of the Voice of the Girls Parliament (VOGP), in recognition of her advocacy for girls’ rights, education and civic participation.
Suleiman, who died following an illness, was remembered as a promising young leader whose commitment to improving the lives of girls continued even while she battled health challenges.
In a statement issued by Amina Omale on behalf of VOGP and HSSI in Abuja, the organisation described the late youth leader’s legacy as a reminder of the importance of investing in girls’ education, health and leadership development.
Elected Speaker of VOGP in 2020 at the age of 16, Suleiman demonstrated leadership by presiding over debates, mentoring fellow delegates and advocating better access to healthcare and education for girls.
Her leadership potential also earned her recognition from the former Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Dr Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu, who appointed her to serve as “Minister for a Day”.
Despite her illness, Suleiman remained committed to advocating for others while pursuing her studies as a fourth-year nursing student with an interest in community healthcare, according to the statement.
The President of HSSI, Dr Jumai Ahmadu, said the organisation was dedicating the occasion to Suleiman to celebrate her achievements and sustain her commitment to advancing the rights and welfare of girls.
“Hon. Sakinah reminded us what leadership rooted in compassion looks like. We dedicate this International Day of the Girl Child to her memory to celebrate her achievements, carry forward her mission for girls’ rights, and ensure her voice continues to shape policies and lives,” Ahmadu said.
As part of the commemoration, HSSI plans to publish tributes in selected media outlets and engage policymakers and healthcare professionals on health challenges affecting young girls.
The organisation also called for targeted interventions to protect girls from preventable and life-threatening health conditions, improve access to medical care and strengthen measures that keep girls in school.
It urged governments, donors and communities to invest in healthcare services for children and young people and establish safe platforms where girls could develop their leadership abilities and participate in decision-making.
In a gesture of solidarity, VOGP coordinators Mrs Jane Chinwe and Mrs Amina Omale visited Suleiman’s family to offer their condolences.
They were received by her father, Alhaji Suleiman, who expressed gratitude for the support extended to the family and reflected on his daughter’s purposeful life and commitment to others.
HSSI also encouraged members of the public to support VOGP by volunteering as mentors or contributing to initiatives promoting girls’ education and healthcare.
