By Itoro Ekwere
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Ekiti State Chapter on Tuesday celebrated the International Day of the Girl Child.
The event, themed “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls on the Frontlines of Crisis,” highlighted the resilience and potential of girls to drive change, even in the face of adversity.
The celebration raised awareness about the challenges girls face, including gender inequality, child marriage, lack of access to education, and violence.
Speakers at the event emphasized the importance of investing in girls’ education, leadership, and empowerment to build a stronger and more equal society.
The guest lecturer, Mrs Sola Falade explained that “girls are assets not just to the family they are born into but also to the world, and as such, our girls deserve to be educated and empowered.”
She encouraged mothers to be expressive. “Tell the younger ones your motivations so they can be motivated to aim for higher grounds and your failures so they can learn from your mistakes and grow.”
Ambassador Wale Ojo, the Director General of Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, stated five moral principles every girl should embody:” integrity, empathy, courage, discipline, and purpose, which are pivotal elements to their growth”.
He encouraged the participants to “let the girl today give birth to a woman Nigeria will be proud of.”
Earlier in her welcome address, the state NAWOJ Chairperson, Mrs Adewumi Ademiju explained that the theme of this year is very significant because” it signals the fact that the girl child has confidence and opportunities, the natural potential to navigate any challenges in life, to lead the society, and make a significant improvement.”
High-profile dignitaries graced the event, as well as representatives from secondary schools in the state, such as Tinuola International School, City of David Academy, Christ School, Fountain International High School, The Rock International Model College, Christ Life International School, among others.
Health personnel from the World Health Organization took time during the event to educate the students on the necessity of receiving the HPV Vaccine, which is a major booster against Cervical cancer. Students from nine to fourteen years were being led out by their teachers to receive the vaccine.
Sanitary items, exercise books, and refreshments were distributed to the participants.
The event aligns with global efforts to promote girls’ rights and challenge harmful practices that hinder their development.