Chinedum Elekwachi
Anambra State Commissioner for Special Duties, Beverly Ikpeazu-Nkemdiche has described the girl child as a potential leader, nation builder and voice capable of shaping the destiny of her generation.
The commissioner spoke in Awka at the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child, held at Godwin Ezeemo International Press Centre with the theme “The Girl I Am, The Change I Need: Girls on the Frontline of Crisis.”
She emphasized the need for all round grooming academically, morally, physically, and emotionally, urging girls to overcome challenges such as gender bias, early marriage, abuse and negative social media influences.
The commissioner however lamented growing distractions caused by mobile phones and online transactions which she said have diverted attention of many girls from their studies and ambitions.
She disclosed government’s establishment of systems to protect the girl child from sexual violence, just as she hinted plans to create a dedicated counseling clinic for young girls to seek help without stigma.
“When parents groom their daughters well, they are raising future leaders. Every girl must walk tall, dream boldly and remember that the world needs her light,” she said.
Aspire for higher education
Chairman of Post Primary Schools Service Commission (PPSC), Prof. Nkechi Ikediugwu urged girls to aspire for higher education, but cautioned against examination malpractice, cultism and the lure of quick money.
Speaking on “Career Guide for a Promising Future for Young Girls,” Ikediugwu described education as the most powerful weapon for empowerment and equality.
“No girl should go into marriage without a degree. Education and skills are the licenses that will take you far in life.”
Appreciating Governor Chukwuma Soludo for his commitment to education, youth empowerment and moral development, the PPSC described the governor’s policies as instrumental to building confident and productive young women.
Also speaking, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academics) of Paul University, Awka, Prof. Chinyere Stella Okunna, lamented cultural practices that still limit women opportunities.
She encouraged the girls to build self-esteem and believe in their potential towards nation building.
“You must be proud of who you are and never let society make you feel inferior,” she said.
Stronger support solicited
Earlier, State Chairperson of NAWOJ, Comrade Tochukwu Ifejika called for stronger support for the girl child, insisting that education, protection and equal opportunities remain the foundation for raising confident and productive women.
According to her, the theme resonates deeply with the association vision to promote female leadership, resilience and self expression.
“In the Southeast, our culture does not always encourage the voice of the girl child. NAWOJ is determined to change that narrative by giving them a platform to speak, grow and lead,” she said.
She explained that the association uses such engagements to equip girls with the knowledge and confidence to handle crisis situations and gender based violence.
The celebration brought together students from ten public and private secondary schools across the state to amplify their voices, build confidence, and inspire them to take charge of their destinies.
