Lalasticlala, Seun, Mynd44

The International Day of the Girl Child is set aside to amplify the voices and rights of girls everywhere. The theme for this year, “My Voice; Our Equal Future”, reimagines a better world inspired and led by adolescent girls, as part of the global Generation Equality movement.

Engineer (Mrs.) Funmilayo Waheed-Adekojo marked the day in an inspiring manner at the event organised by the office of the special assistant to the Ogun state governor on students' matters. The event held at the Valley View auditorium, Government House, Abeokuta, Ogun State. Several dignitaries and student representatives from various secondary schools were present. These representative were young adolescent girl proudly garbed in their school uniforms.

The aim of the event was to create an enabling environment for education and advocacy for girls' right. Girls worldwide are demanding a life free from gender-based violence, access to health, skills, recognition and investment as leaders of social change.

In light of this, Engr. Funmilayo gave a very remarkable speech that centered around protecting human rights, calling on government to review policies that might discriminate the rights of the girl child. She also made remarkable point about service provision such as healthcare and other essential services. Speaking about sexual harassment and domestic violence, she called for prosecution of all offenders by the confines of the law. Education is key and important for a progressive community. If girls are sufficiently trained, it is safe to say you've trained a whole nation.

In order to prove the point above, after the speech, Engr Funmilayo awarded two outstanding female secondary students with the sum of N20,000 each. They were bold enough to indicate interest to become an engineer among the lot. This gesture was done out of goodwill to validate their dreams of becoming engineers in the future as the field is one which more women are needed. She also promised a session for two tertiary institution students who displayed exceptional talent at the event by showcasing their music prowess. This is to recognise other skills asides academics that are critical to capacity building.

The event ended on a high note as other dignitaries present included Engr Babatunde Kuye, Foluke Daramola Salako, Comrade Azeez Adeyemi and members of NANS.


FCM GIST