The Centre for Women, Youth, and Community Action (NACWYCA) marked the International Day of the Girl Child on October 11, 2024, with an impactful event held at Government Science Secondary School, Akruba, on the outskirts of Lafia, Nasarawa State. The event, supported by the Institute of Human Virology of Nigeria (IHVN), aimed to spotlight the importance of empowering the girl child and encouraging society to prioritize their education and development.
The day’s activities kicked off with a vibrant procession of the school’s female students around the premises. Holding placards and banners, the girls championed the need for heightened awareness and investment in the girl child, with slogans calling for greater attention to girls’ education and rights. The procession set the tone for the main event, which took place in the school hall.
In his opening remarks, the Principal of Government Science Secondary School, Akruba, extended a warm welcome to the NACWYCA team, led by its Executive Director, Dr. Nawani Aboki. He expressed gratitude for the Centre’s choice to celebrate the occasion with the students and commended the initiative for bringing the event to their doorstep.
Dr. Aboki, in his address, emphasized the crucial role the girl child plays in the progress of every community and nation. “Educating a girl means liberating society,” he remarked, urging the students to set their sights high. Using an inspiring metaphor, he challenged the girls to aim not only to be “Governors’ wives” but to become Governors themselves, driving home the importance of ambition and self-belief.
The representative of IHVN’s Executive Director also delivered a goodwill message, encouraging the girls to strive for excellence in all areas of their lives. He highlighted IHVN’s commitment to supporting initiatives that elevate the status of young girls and announced an essay competition themed “The Girl’s Vision for the Future.” He urged the students to participate and share their dreams and aspirations for a better future.
The event featured insightful lectures from invited speakers who covered topics such as “Dealing with Gender Profiling,” “The Need for Healthy Living,” and “Understanding Your True Self.” These sessions aimed to equip the girls with the knowledge and confidence to face societal challenges and maintain their physical and emotional well-being.
In her closing remarks, NACWYCA’s Program Manager, Mrs. Augustina Enareroje, expressed gratitude to the school administration, IHVN, and other partners, including representatives from the Ministries of Women Affairs and Water Resources, for their contributions to the event’s success. She praised the students for their active participation and encouraged them to embody the virtues of womanhood while striving for academic excellence.
As part of the celebration, NACWYCA, with the support of IHVN, distributed various gift items to the students, including lunch packs, bringing smiles to their faces as the event drew to a close. The girls expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the thoughtful gestures, making the celebration of their day memorable and meaningful.
The event concluded on a high note, reinforcing the message of empowerment and the importance of continued support for girls’ education and development.