The Minister of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, has called for support from civil society organisations, development partners, and others to create an environment where the girl-child can thrive.
Musawa made this call during her keynote address at the biennial State of the Nigerian Girls Summit (SONGS) in Abuja on Friday.
The Minister stated that, for each girl to succeed, dedication and commitment are essential.
She urged stakeholders in the education sector to create conditions that support girls’ success.
“It is our collective responsibility to create an environment where every girl feels safe, respected, and valued.
“The vision Nigerian girls have for their future is bold, clear, and achievable. It is a vision of a society where they are free to dream, to lead, to innovate, and to thrive.
“This vision calls on each of us whether in government, civil society, or the private sector to create a world where girls are not only seen, but also heard, respected, and empowered to shape their own destinies”.
She added, “Your future is bright, your dreams are valid, and your voices matter. Together, we will continue to build a Nigeria that is worthy of your vision”.
Musawa identified skill acquisition as key to achieving the aspirations of the girl-child and called for platforms, mentorship, and resources to help girls use their talents to drive innovation.
SONGS Committee Co-Chair, Mr Tunde Aremu, noted the importance of regular research, thorough documentation, and coordinated efforts to address harmful practices affecting girls.
He advocated for a comprehensive review of cultural practices detrimental to girls’ well-being and urged media stakeholders to raise awareness and facilitate discussions to empower girls across the country.
“This biennial summit serves as a crucial platform, uniting government agencies, non-governmental organisations, and stakeholders committed to dismantling barriers for girls and young women in Nigeria.
“A key takeaway from the meeting was the need to move beyond instinctive responses to girls’ issues in Nigeria.
“We agreed on conducting regular research, documenting findings, and responding collectively, with active input from the girls themselves”.
Mrs Mercy Okeke, Senior Gender Officer, Nigeria Girls Not Brides, stated that their vision is a world without child marriage, where every girl and woman has equal rights and status with boys and men.
“To achieve this, we empower organisations working with girls to promote their agency. Child marriage violates girls’ rights, limiting their access to education, freedom, and protection,” she said.
Girls’ Rights Activist, Joy Ogah urged federal, state, and local governments to enforce the Child Rights Act, noting that much work remains to be done.
The event’s highlight was the unveiling of the 2024 State of the Nigerian Girl Child report. (NAN)