The Directorate of Child Rights, Gender & Human Trafficking of the Ijebu North branch of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) held a powerful celebration today in honor of the International Day of the Girl Child. With the theme, “GIRLS’ VISION FOR THE FUTURE”, the event drew young girls from various secondary schools in Ijebu North and some young ladies who are currently having their IT exercise at the Ijebu North local government secretariat from the prestigious Olabisi Onabanjo University to spotlight the potential of girls in shaping society.

Dignitaries present included Mrs. Adeola Elizabeth, the Director of Water Resources and Environmental Sanitation; Comrade Adeola Akinyemi, the Vice-Chairman of Ogun East NYCN; as well as the Deputy Director of Water Resources and Environmental Sanitation; Mrs. A.O Ogunyemi. Other officials in attendance were the Director of Community Development, the Ijebu North Local Government Youth Officer and the State Youth Officer for Ijebu North.

Major highlight of the event was a keynote address by Mrs. Adesola Bakare Adeosun, who took the stage as the guest speaker. Her presentation underscored the event’s theme, “Girls’ Vision for the Future,” as she enlightened attendees on the essential role of the girl child in nation-building. Mrs. Adeosun passionately discussed how supporting girls’ aspirations contributes not only to their personal growth but to societal advancement as well, noting that girls are not made for the kitchen alone.

According to her, “Investing in the education and empowerment of girls is pivotal for sustainable development”. She urged everyone to consider the unique strengths girls bring to leadership, innovation and community development. Mrs. Adeosun’s words resonated with many, sparking discussions on how girls can rise to meet the challenges of the future.

The celebration of the International Day of the Girl Child by the Ijebu North NYCN branch is part of ongoing efforts to advocate for gender equality and support for youth development. With events like these, the Directorate of Child Rights, Gender & Human Trafficking seeks to create a nurturing environment where every girl can aspire, achieve and actively contribute to nation building.

In his remarks, the coordinator of the youth council for Ijebu North local branch; Ogbeni Abolaji Adeniyi Sobowale commended members of the directorate of child rights, gender & human trafficking for the initiative. He noted that such a program would be constantly needed to remind the young girls of the brighter future which awaits them. In the end, sanitary pads were shared as souvenirs to the young girls in attendance.