The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting the rights, education and future of the girl child.
The government emphasised the need to protect girls from child marriage and empower them to achieve their full potential, particularly in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM).
This was the focus of speakers at a programme held commemorate the International Day of the Girl Child, with the theme: “Invest in Girls’ Rights, End Child Marriage,” organised by the Champion of the Innovate-Eko STEAM Mentorship Series under the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Education, Mr. Opeyemi Eniola at the Lagos State University of Education ( LASUED), Oto-Ijanikin, on Friday.
In a keynote address, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Deputy Governorship candidate, Princess Damilola Sonayon-James stressed the importance of investing in the education and development of girls, noting that every girl deserves the opportunity to learn, pursue her dreams and contribute meaningfully to society.
She emphasised the need to end child marriage, which can deprive girls of education and limit their future prospects.
The Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Tolani-Alli-Balogun, who was the guest of honour, highlighted the importance of providing girls with equal access to quality education, mentorship and the necessary support to thrive academically and professionally.
“Today, we are saying that Lagos girls belong in the laboratory, at the coding desk, on engineering sites, in design studio, and in every boardroom where decisions about our future are mad,” the Commissioner said.
He called on education stakeholders to create an enabling environment where girls can develop their talents, build confidence and pursue careers in STEAM without discrimination or limitations.
The Deputy Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Mojisola Meranda underscored the importance of safeguarding the rights of the girl child, stressing that girls must be protected from harmful practices and given the freedom to make informed decisions about their education and future.
Similarly, the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende emphasised the need for girls to be bold, attentive and focused.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Mrs. Abisola Dokunmu-Adegbite who was represented by Admin and Human Resource Assistant from the Office of the Chief of Staff, Mrs. Muslimat Durosinmi, advised that communities, teachers, parents should ensure that the rights of the girl child are respected and protected.
She encouraged families and communities to support their aspirations and personal development.
Speaking earlier, Eniola, in his welcome address, stated that there is a collective resolve to end child marriage and to invest in the education, protection, health and leadership of every girl child.
He stressed that the Lagos State Child’s Rights law is firmly anchored in policy and action and that the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has turned this policies into tangible results.
“Through continuous investment in inclusive education, STEAM programmes, mentorship initiatives such as Innovate-Eko and the pioneering Alternative Secondary School for girls, the Ministry is providing second chances to girls whose schooling was interrupted by early marriage, poverty, teenage pregnancy and other challenges,” he stated.
The highlight of the day was the sensitisation exercises on domestic and sexual violence and good health and hygiene, which were delivered by the Executive Secretary, Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency , Titilayo Vivour-Adeniyi and Special Adviser on Health, Doctor Tolani Adeyemi, respectively.
Other dignitaries who graced the occasion include Tutors-General/ Permanent Secretary, Education District V, Mr. Dauda Hassan and those who formed part of the panelists at the fireside session, the vice-chancellor, Lagos State University of Education ( LASUED), Professor Bilikis Lafiaji- Okuneye; Executive Secretary, Lateef Jakande Academy, Aisha Agbaje and others.
The event ended with a call on parents, educators, policymakers and community leaders to invest in girls’ education, defend their rights, and create opportunities for them to thrive, build an inclusive and prosperous society.
The event, which was well attended,
brought together government officials, education stakeholders and other distinguished personalities to advocate for the protection of girls’ rights, access to quality education and opportunities to excel in STEAM-related fields.
