Lagos Champions Girl Child Education and Leadership

Empowering the 21st-Century Girl: A Celebration of Strength and Potential

Dansol High School, in collaboration with the Lagos State Government, participated in the global observance of the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child. This event aimed to reinforce the importance of empowering young girls through education, health, and equal opportunities. The celebration focused on themes that highlight the critical areas of health, safety, and overall well-being, which are essential for girls to reach their full potential.

Health as the Foundation of Success

During the event held at Dansol High School Hall in Agidingbi, Ikeja, Dr. Oluwatoni Adeyemi, representing the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, emphasized the importance of good health as a cornerstone for building successful lives. She explained that a healthy girl is better equipped to make informed decisions and pursue her dreams with confidence and clarity.

“Health is not just the absence of disease but a complete state of physical, mental, and social well-being,” she stated. Ogunyemi encouraged the girls to focus on personal hygiene, handwashing, and food safety while maintaining healthy relationships with others. She described good health as a source of energy, confidence, and focus.

Additionally, she highlighted the significance of self-love, stating that it helps girls resist peer pressure, abuse, and discrimination. Self-love empowers them to aspire for leadership and innovation. Ogunyemi called on leaders, parents, and mentors to model confidence and fairness, ensuring inclusion and gender balance in all aspects of life.

Commitment to Gender Equity

Ogunyemi reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s dedication to promoting gender equity. Under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the state continues to implement programs that protect, educate, and uplift the girl child. These initiatives reflect a strong commitment to creating a supportive environment for young girls.

A Call to Action for a Healthier Future

The Chairperson of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), Mrs. Risqat Jimoh, described the 2025 theme as a “call to action.” She stressed that a healthy, confident, and valued girl has the power to transform her world. Jimoh identified health as the first pillar of empowerment, emphasizing that proper nutrition, access to healthcare, and accurate knowledge about reproductive and mental health are essential for building confident and capable young women.

She also addressed the issue of menstrual hygiene, calling for an end to the stigma that prevents girls from attending school. “No girl should ever have to leave school because of her period. Her education and dreams must not be interrupted by stigma or lack of resources,” Jimoh said.

Ensuring Safety and Inclusion

On the topic of security, Jimoh maintained that every girl deserves safety at home, in school, and online. She urged parents and educators to teach personal boundaries and digital awareness. Jimoh further advocated for the inclusion of boys and men in the empowerment process, describing them as crucial allies in fostering respect, equality, and protection for girls.

“True empowerment is not about competition but collaboration built on respect and equality,” she concluded.

Interactive Sessions and Educational Presentations

The event featured discussions, educational presentations, and interactive sessions designed to inspire girls to embrace leadership, self-awareness, and resilience in shaping their future. These activities provided a platform for girls to engage with experts and learn about the importance of health, safety, and empowerment.