Celebrating the Girl Child: Honoring the Unsung Heroes

 

Today, on International Day of the Girl Child, we pause to reflect on the importance of celebrating girls and the incredible women in their lives—especially mothers. This day, established by the United Nations in 2012, shines a spotlight on the unique challenges that girls face globally and emphasizes the need for empowerment and equality.

Mothers are often the backbone of families, juggling numerous responsibilities whilst instilling values, aspirations, and resilience in their children. According to a study by the World Bank, educated mothers are more likely to ensure that their daughters receive an education, which can have a transformative effect on entire communities.

Nigeria has been home to many remarkable women who have fought tirelessly for the rights of girls and women. One such figure is Dora Akunyili, the former Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). Akunyili was a champion for public health and safety, and her legacy includes advocating for education and empowerment for women and girls.

Another influential figure is Oby Ezekwesili, a former Minister of Education and a co-founder of the Bring Back Our Girls movement. Ezekwesili has been a relentless advocate for quality education, highlighting the importance of education in transforming lives and communities. Her work has inspired many girls to pursue their education and stand up for their rights.

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the first female Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), is another powerful example of female leadership in Nigeria. A prominent economist and former Minister of Finance, Okonjo-Iweala has consistently advocated for sustainable development and economic empowerment, particularly for women and girls. Her achievements serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations.

I would also like to take this moment to acknowledge my mother and sisters, who thrive every day to ensure their families, are cared for. Their unwavering support and dedication inspire me deeply. This wouldn’t be complete without mentioning my amazing girlfriend, who is a wonderful mother in her own right, and my friends Aishat and Becky. You are truly appreciated for the love and strength you bring into the world.

Despite the strides made in recent years, girls still face significant challenges. According to UNICEF, approximately 10.5 million children are out of school in Nigeria, with about 60% of them being girls, amounting to around 6.3 million girls out of school. The northern region of Nigeria is particularly affected, facing significant cultural and socio-economic barriers to girls' education.

In states like Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa, the situation is dire, with estimates indicating that about 3 million girls are out of school in northern Nigeria alone. Factors such as early marriage, poverty, and insurgency contribute to these staggering numbers. I recall an experience in Abuja when I participated in a sensitization visit to an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp in Waru. The focus was on educating women and girls about the transmission of STIs and AIDS. However, we faced stiff resistance from the men, who accused us of attempting to teach their girls and women about family planning. This reflects a broader societal issue, especially in northern Nigeria, where cultural attitudes can severely limit girls' access to vital education and health information.

An African proverb states, "If you train a girl, you train a nation." This adage underscores the immense potential that educated girls hold for the future of their communities and countries.

Celebrating the girl child involves not only recognizing their rights and achievements but also empowering them to overcome obstacles. Initiatives such as mentorship programs, scholarships, and community support groups play a vital role in encouraging girls to pursue their dreams.

Organizations like Plan International and Girls Who Code are working tirelessly to create opportunities for girls in various fields, from STEM to leadership roles. These initiatives provide girls with the tools they need to become future leaders and innovators, breaking the cycle of poverty and inequality.

It’s essential to foster a culture of safety and respect for girls and women. As someone with many female friends, I am continually reminded of the importance of creating safe spaces where they can thrive. It’s not just about physical safety; emotional well-being is equally important. We must challenge societal norms that perpetuate discomfort and fear.

Every individual has a role to play in this endeavor—whether through advocacy, education, or simply being a supportive friend. By listening to the experiences of girls and women and addressing their concerns, we can help build a world where they feel empowered and safe.

As we celebrate the girl child today, let us also honor the mothers who tirelessly advocate for their daughters' futures. Their sacrifices often go unnoticed, yet they are fundamental in shaping a world where girls can thrive.

Let us pledge to support initiatives that empower girls and recognize the invaluable contributions of mothers. Whether through education, mentorship, or community involvement, each of us can play a part in creating a brighter future for girls everywhere.

Today, let us celebrate not just the girl child, but the resilient mothers behind them. Together, they are the heartbeat of society, and by recognizing their sacrifices, we pave the way for a more equitable future for all.

Conclusively, remember the conversations that bind us—like the one I had with my sister last night, where we shared hopes and dreams, just as many mothers do with their daughters every day. Together, let’s create a world where every girl can dream freely and achieve those dreams, fueled by the love and support of their mothers and communities.