From Joseph Asegba, Yola
Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri has expressed reasons for ensuring that all the 21 local governments should be women to unlock the potential of the girl child for the better.
Fintiri, therefore, said, “Together, we can unlock the potential of the girl child and create a better world for all” and also pledged to continue supporting initiatives that promote girls’ education and empowerment.”
He said it is on this not that “I and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the states deliberately made all 21 local government areas vice-chairmen presently women.
The governor reiterated that this is why the deputy governor and the Chief Judge of the state are women; this is aimed at involving women in the schemes of things in the state and giving the girls hope of seeing their gender in leadership positions.
“We are committed to creating an environment where girls can thrive, an environment free of discrimination, stereotypes, drug abuse, some unholy cultural norms preventing the girl child from getting educated such as early marriage,” he added.
Represented Fintiri, the Commissioner of Education and Human Capital Development, Dr Umar Garba Pella, made this in Yola Adamawa State capital during the celebration of the world International Day of the Girl Child in the state.
The theme of the event, “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” brought together stakeholders, policymakers, and most importantly, the girls themselves to emphasize the importance of empowering young women.
Following the world reflected on the challenges facing adolescent girls, including climate change, conflict, poverty, and inequality, the Adamawa State celebration offered a beacon of hope. Dr. Pella further, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to girls’ education and empowerment.
According to Pella, “Girls are the future leaders, innovators, and change-makers,”. “We must invest in their education, health, and economic empowerment to unlock their full potential”.
He explained further that, in addition to government efforts, local organizations are also making a difference.
The Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) project has been working tirelessly to provide girls with access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities in the state.
Adamawa State, efforts are underway to address the specific challenges facing girls as the state government has launched initiatives to combat child marriage, provide scholarships for girls, and promote girls’ participation in STEM education.
He said they recognize the unique needs of our girls and are committed to addressing them, just as the world continues to navigate the challenges of climate change, conflict, and inequality, the importance of empowering girls cannot be overstated.
In recognizance of their potential, “We can create a more just, equitable, and prosperous world for all. The International Day of the Girl Child serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of girls’ empowerment.”
