The Chairman of the Women & Children Development and Health Research Initiative (WCDHRI), Dr. Pius Ade-Ojo, has called on girls and women across Nigeria to be bold, fearless, and unapologetic in pursuing their dreams.
Speaking with journalists in Ado-Ekiti, the Ekiti State capital, during the commemoration of the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child, Dr. Ade-Ojo emphasized the importance of the event, which brought together secondary school students across the state.
He described it as more than just a programme, but a movement and a declaration that highlights the value of girls’ voices, perspectives, and future.
The renowned medical professional noted that this year’s theme, “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” acknowledges the challenges facing girls and women but encouraged them to remain resilient and innovative to meet the demands of the society.
Dr. Ade-Ojo highlighted initiatives such as the Girl Child Education Trust Fund and Debby’s Place, as part of the efforts led by WCDHRI to empower young girls and women in society.
He also hailed the significant contributions of the Ekiti State First Lady, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, for her dedication to the development of children and women in the state.
His words, “We acknowledge the challenges that girls and women continue to face in our society. But we also recognize their resilience, strength, and innovation. Girls are not just the leaders of tomorrow but the change-makers of today.
“This program is more than just an event; it is a movement. It is a declaration that girls’ voices matter, their perspectives count, and their futures are worth investing in.
“I encourage every girl to be bold, fearless, and unapologetic about their dreams. Share your ideas, listen to others, and learn from each other’s experiences.
“We are grateful to Her Excellency, Dr. Oyebanji, the Mother of the Day. We are encouraged by your passion for the development of children and women development. Your efforts at mentoring young people are well obvious in Ekiti state”.
Also speaking at the event, Dr. Comfort Ade-Ojo, the director of WCDHRI, explained that the program was designed to raise awareness about the needs and aspirations of the girl child and to educate the public on the importance of supporting them.
A representative from the Ekiti State Ministry of Youth Development, Adesola Adeluyi, urged girls to persevere and remain resilient in pursuing their goals, becoming role models in their communities.
She also called on the public to challenge gender imbalances and to respect and support the girl child as they do to their male counterparts, for a more equitable society.
Collaborative organizations at the event include: Emerging Nurses Network, Bibi Child Matters, Leap Africa, RichMarg, among others.
