FCTA pledges commitment to support girl-child

The FCT Minister of State, Dr. Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu, has pledged the commitment of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to create an enabling environment for the girl child to thrive.

The minister made the pledge at an event organised by Helpline Foundation for the Needy, Abuja, in collaboration with Make A Difference for the Needy Foundation as part of activities to commemorate the 2019 International Day for the Girl Child.

Speaking on the theme ‘Empowering Girls for a Brighter Tomorrow’, Aliyu stressed the need for government at all levels to come up with policies and programmes that would encourage the girl child to realise her potential in society.

Aliyu, who identified mentorship as key to growth and development of the girl child, also called on parents, especially mothers, to always monitor the emotional growth of the girl child, noting that mothers are closer to the girl child.

Earlier, president of Helpline Foundation for the Needy, Abuja, Dr. Jummai Ahmadu, said the event was aimed at amplifying the voices of the girl child and to ensure that they stand for their rights, adding that about 25 years of the Beijing Declaration, the girl child has moved from dreaming to achieving.

“More girls today are attending and completing school; fewer are getting married or becoming mothers while still children, and more are gaining the skills they need to excel in the future world of work.

“Girls are breaking boundaries and barriers posed by stereotypes and exclusion, including those directed at children with disabilities and those living in marginalised communities,” Dr. Jummai said