By Fatima Jamil Ahmad
In a celebration aimed at empowering and uplifting girls, Plan International Nigeria, in collaboration with the Bauchi State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, commemorated the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child. The event, themed “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” was funded by Global Affairs Canada through the Aspire Project and brought together key stakeholders, government officials, and young girls from the Champions of Change and Girls Out Loud platform across Bauchi.
The Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs, Child Development, and Social Welfare, Zainab Baban Takko, delivered a keynote address highlighting the significance of the day. She emphasized the importance of empowering girls to lead, learn, and strive for success beyond societal limitations.
“This year’s theme could not have come at a better time,” said Commissioner Baban Takko. “We are faced with numerous challenges as a nation, including the breakdown of societal values and the rise of vices. It is critical for all stakeholders—parents, families, and communities—to raise awareness on protecting our children, particularly girls, from abuse and exploitation.”
She acknowledged the efforts of the Bauchi State Government, under the leadership of Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, in supporting initiatives aimed at enhancing the rights and welfare of girls. The Commissioner praised the Governor for domesticating the Child Protection Law in Bauchi State, ensuring that the rights of children are respected and upheld.
Baban Takko further highlighted the progress made since the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. “More girls today are attending and completing school, fewer are getting married while still children, and more are gaining the skills they need to excel in the future world of work,” she said. “Girls are breaking barriers posed by stereotypes, including those directed at children with disabilities and those from marginalized communities.”
The Gender Equality and Inclusion Officer for Plan International Nigeria, Damaris Philemon, also spoke on the partnership between Plan International and the Bauchi State Government. “The Ministry of Women Affairs has been instrumental in mobilizing support and the participation of the female honorable commissioners in Bauchi for this event. The Honourable Commissioner has shown great commitment to ensuring that women and girls in Bauchi State are empowered to lead and succeed,” Philemon noted.
She stressed the importance of educating girls which aligns with the Plan country strategy of having girls learn, lead, decide and thrive. She further states there is need to breaking the cultural and societal barriers that limit their potentials. “We commemorate this activity to show girls that there is no limit to what they can achieve. The notion that a girl’s end is in her husband’s house is outdated. Girls must be encouraged to further their education and grow beyond expectations,” she added.
Two young advocates from the Girls Out Loud community, Farida Yusuf Ahmad and Ruth Emmanuel, shared their experiences and hopes for the future. Farida emphasized the need for government and community support in encouraging girls’ education, particularly in rural areas where traditional mindsets still prevail. “There is more to a girl child. We are strong, we are born to be leaders, and we are entitled to education,” Farida said.
Ruth Emmanuel echoed this sentiment, urging girls to speak up about their challenges. “We, the Girls Out Loud community, are always here to listen and offer support. Don’t die in silence. Reach out, and we will extend a helping hand,” she advised.
The event concluded with presentations and interactive sessions, leaving the girls inspired and motivated to pursue their dreams. The Bauchi State Government and Plan International reaffirmed their commitment to creating an enabling environment for girls to thrive and achieve their full potential.