UNICEF, HILWA pledge support for girl-child empowerment, education

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), High Level Women Advocates (HILWA) and Niger State Universal Basic Education Board (NSUBEB) have pledged to promote girl-child education for family and societal impact.

They made the pledge during a programme organised by the groups to commemorate the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child in Minna on Monday.

The NSUBEB Chairman, Alhaji Mohammed Ibrahim, noted that educating a girl child amounts to laying the foundation for a brighter future, improved family dynamics and better society.

He said that UNICEF records indicate that the state has about half a million out-of-school children, adding that this called for urgency in addressing the menace.

UNICEF Focal Person in NSUBEB, Hajiya Aishatu Yusuf, commended the collaboration between SUBEB, UNICEF, AGILE and HILWA in promoting girls’ education.

She urged them to use their resources to boost girl child education through innovative enrollment, retention, transition and completion strategies, ensuring that the girls return to school.

 Chairman of HILWA in Niger, Hajiya Hassan Adamu, said the theme of the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child shows the significance of girls in the society.

She said that the initiative was aimed at promoting girls’ empowerment and education as well as ensuring that their voices are heard and their potential fulfilled.

“HILWA inspires girls to reach their full potential through dedication and handwork and equips them with essential skills for personal growth.

“Therefore, we mentor them to make informed decisions, take responsibility, and strive for excellence,” Adamu said.

Recall that the United Nations General Assembly had set aside Oct. 11 as the International Day of the Girl Child, to recognise girls’ rights and the unique challenges girls face around the world.