For the Girl Child
Coincidentally, October 11, which marked the day President Buhari conferred the National Honours Award, also happened to be the International Day of the Girl Child. I couldn’t be more proud of all the women who were honoured that day. From the very influential Ngozi Okonjo Iweala to Teni, the entertainer. Every one of them. Once again, we are reminded of the female figure’s vital role in society. Gone are the days when patriarchy ruled 100%, and women were generally relegated to the background. And you know these issues are actually global. While Nigeria shows a high degree of gender inequality or gender discrimination, it isn’t the only country where this phenomenon exists. In many countries worldwide, women are still fighting for basics like the right to vote and choose what they wish to wear etc.
However, things are getting better back home. Girls are being given the opportunity to lead. We are seeing them at the forefront of change and hearing their voices in decision-making spaces. And I believe it’s going to keep getting better.
Ending all forms of discrimination against women and girls is not only a fundamental human right but also has a multiplier effect across all other development areas.
For now, it is time for us all to stand accountable, with and for girls!! Yes, it’s time to invest in a future that believes in her potential.