NAWOJ Urges Government To Prioritize Girl’s Empowerment, Rights Protection

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Kogi State Chapter, has called on governments at all levels to prioritize the empowerment of girls and safeguard their rights as part of efforts to promote equality and sustainable development.

Chairperson of the Association, Comrade Stella Edoka, made the appeal in a statement issued in Lokoja to mark the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child.

Comrade Edoka emphasized the importance of investing in girl’s education, health, and leadership, describing such investment as vital to building a more equitable and prosperous society.

According to her, every girl deserves access to quality education, healthcare, and opportunities for personal growth and leadership.

The NAWOJ Chairperson also urged the Kogi state government to introduce a free sanitary pad distribution programme for schoolgirls across the state, noting that the initiative would enhance menstrual hygiene, improve girl’s confidence, and reduce absenteeism in schools.

Speaking on this year’s theme, “The Girl I Am: The Change I Lead,” Edoka highlighted that girls possess the potential to drive transformative change when provided with the right support and enabling environment.

She further called on individuals, communities, and organizations to unite in fostering a society where every girl can thrive, lead, and contribute meaningfully to community and national development.

Comrade Edoka reaffirmed NAWOJ’s commitment to advocating for gender equity and amplifying the voices of girls and women in Kogi State and across Nigeria.

Ajifa Ainoko, Edited By Grace Namiji