The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development hosted a high-level intergenerational dialogue with adolescent girls under the theme: “Her Voice, Her Power: A National Conversation on Strengthening Girls’ Voice, Agency and Leadership in Nigeria Moving from Symbolic Inclusion to Meaningful Participation.”
The event brought together notable gender advocates, child protection partners, development organizations, policymakers, and young leaders to discuss practical ways of amplifying the voices of girls and ensuring their active participation in national development.
One of the highlights of the event was a presentation by Goodwin Chinedu Odo, who delivered a paper titled “From Global Standards to Local Impact.” In his presentation, he examined the growing influence of social media on children and emphasized the urgent need for stronger online child protection policies to safeguard young people who fall victim to digital abuse and exploitation.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Mrs. Miriam Matiko, UNDP Representative to Nigeria, advocated for equal access to education for the girl child. She reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to creating opportunities and closing educational gaps affecting girls across the country. She expressed concern over the rising number of out-of-school children and noted that both the government and development partners are working tirelessly to reduce the figures.
Similarly, Charles Rolika, UNICEF Representative to Nigeria, commended the Honourable Minister for her leadership and unwavering commitment to the welfare and protection of children. He pledged UNICEF’s continued support towards advancing the rights and development of the Nigerian girl child.
In her keynote address, the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, welcomed participants and appreciated their commitment to celebrating and empowering the girl child. She assured stakeholders of her determination to ensure that girls under her watch are given the support and opportunities needed to achieve their goals, fulfill their dreams, and emerge as future leaders.
The Minister also highlighted the introduction of the Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at creating an enabling environment where girls can thrive academically, socially, and economically.
The event further featured an engaging panel discussion anchored by Doose Shamiga, former One-Day Governor and Speaker of the Benue State Youth Parliament. The panel examined critical issues affecting the girl child, including access to education, leadership opportunities, gender-based violence, child protection, and social inclusion.
The dialogue served as a strong call for collective action towards empowering girls and ensuring their voices are not only heard but meaningfully represented in decision-making processes across Nigeria.
