Stakeholders at the inaugural African Girls Assembly in Abuja have called for early investment in girls’ confidence, leadership skills and advocacy to address the underrepresentation of women in leadership positions across Africa. The call came on Saturday, October 10, ahead of the International Day of the Girl Child, observed annually on October 11.
The assembly, convened by the Educate a Woman Initiative under the theme “Empowered Girls, Transformational Leaders,” brought together participants and stakeholders from Nigeria, Zambia and The Gambia. Convener Joy Aderele, Country Director of Self Help Africa, said girls needed early opportunities to develop the confidence, skills and networks required to lead. She urged them to express their views, stand up for themselves and advocate for others in their communities.
Love Idoko-Uloko, Founder of Activate Success International Foundation, encouraged girls to overcome fear, pursue their ambitions and use their ideas to solve societal problems. Dr Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, Director-General of the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development, urged participants to combine academic excellence with courage, integrity and commitment to truth. She also cautioned them against allowing their backgrounds or financial circumstances to limit their potential.
Ellen Hahne, Head of Political and Trade Affairs at the Swedish Embassy in Abuja, described the girls as leaders already making contributions in their schools and communities, while reaffirming Sweden’s commitment to gender equality. Participants Eleora Aderemi and Perfecta Silas also urged girls to believe in themselves, speak up against discrimination and demand their rights, including access to education.
The assembly featured spoken-word performances and panel discussions on rights, advocacy and the importance of girls’ voices in shaping their futures.
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