A teenager, Joy Ogah, on Monday symbolically took over the seat of Vice President Kashim Shettima, using the opportunity to champion the rights and education of girls across Nigeria.
According to a statement from the Office of the Vice President on Tuesday, the symbolic handover took place during a meeting between Shettima and a delegation from PLAN International, led by Helen Mfonobong Idiong, the organisation’s Director of Programme, Quality, and Innovation.
From the Vice President’s chair, Ogah addressed the persistent challenges confronting girls in Nigeria, noting that over 10.5 million children remain out of school, with girls making up more than 60 per cent of that number.
“We must invest in education that is safe and inclusive for every child in Nigeria,” she urged, calling on the government and stakeholders to prioritise interventions that protect and empower young girls.
Ogah also called for the provision of free sanitary products in schools, alongside improved access to clean water, sanitation, and nutrition. “Every girl deserves a classroom, a choice, dignity, and not silence,” she said.
Also Read: Flood Control: Obio/Akpor Chairman Acts Against Waste Dumping
“When girls are protected, peace becomes possible. I may be the Vice President for a day, but the struggles I represent cannot end in a day. They must continue in our policies, our classrooms, our conversations, and our budgets,” Ogah added.
Vice President Shettima commended her advocacy, reaffirming President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to advancing girl-child education and inclusive learning.
“We will continue our engagement with PLAN International and apply the government’s strength toward your solid advice on girl-child education. In President Bola Tinubu, you have an ally you can believe in,” he said.
The event comes amid growing national momentum for gender inclusivity in education, as advocacy groups and the Federal Government intensify efforts to promote equitable learning opportunities and empower girls across the country.
