Nigerian President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Monday stated that no Nigerian girl-child will be excluded from acquiring education in the country.
The President said his administration is committed to providing quality education that prepares women and girls to lead and bring positive change to communities.
He also stated his commitment to taking action to eliminate structural inequalities that has held back African women.
The President made this commitment while speaking at the launch of the “#WeAreEqual Campaign” at the state house in Abuja. Tinubu, however, called on other African leaders to do same.
“We must be conscious of the fact that the empowerment of women and girls is essential to achieving each of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. We must work together to promote laws and policies that protect and promote women’s rights. Invest in girls’ education and skills development, and create economic opportunities that are accessible to all.”
“For us in Nigeria, the full operationalization of the Student’s Loan (Access to Higher Education) Act is key to achieving these goals. As it will ensure that all young people have unhindered access to education,” the President stated.
President Tinubu added that his administration will continue to work to end gender-based violence. He also promised to increase learning opportunities for girls in safe and conducive environments.
“These measures will enable more women to succeed in different vocations. They will help the women to properly shape their future endeavours. From politics to engineering, science, technology, sports, and the creative economy,” the President said.
The ‘#WeAreEqual’ campaign is an initiative of the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD). It is said to have been launched in 15 African countries in different iterations. The organization focuses on health, education, economic empowerment, and gender-based violence.
The Nigerian component of the campaign, tagged: “Education as a Powerful Tool for Change”, is championed by Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu.
source: Premium Times
