The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) FCT Council has commended the Organization of African Instituted Churches (OAIC), Abuja chapter, for launching an Enlightenment and Wellness Campaign dedicated to advancing girl-child education.
Speaking at the event, NUJ FCT Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, described education as a powerful tool for transforming lives, especially for young girls. Represented by Council Treasurer, Comrade Sandra Chukwugekwu, Ike stressed that investing in girls’ education empowers families and communities to rise above poverty, illiteracy, and marginalization.
She praised OAIC for its grassroots initiatives, including awareness creation, empowerment training, and skill acquisition for indigent women and girls. “As journalists, we pledge our continued support in amplifying developmental initiatives that give voice to the voiceless and light the path toward equity, opportunity, and national development,” Ike affirmed.
The campaign also drew strong advocacy from educators, religious leaders, and policymakers, who renewed calls to end early child marriage and prioritize investment in girl-child education.
Mrs. Angela Nkwocha, representing the Minister of Women Affairs, emphasized the importance of including young girls in policy discussions that affect their future. She revealed that the ministry, in partnership with UNESCO and UNICEF, is working to ensure girls remain in school, particularly through rural outreach and community engagement.
“We must stop early child marriage so that girls can acquire education. We go into rural areas, speak to communities in their language, and ask the girls directly what they need. We can’t discuss their future without their voices in the room,” Nkwocha stated, adding that traditional and religious leaders remain vital allies in the campaign.
Reverend Timothy Amakom, OAIC Chairman in the FCT, challenged lingering cultural stereotypes against educating girls, noting that Nigerian women have continued to excel as ministers, commissioners, and global leaders such as WTO Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. “One day, a woman will be president of Nigeria,” he said confidently.
Delivering the keynote, Dr. Nestor Ande-Philip of the University of Abuja warned that many girls are still being forced into early marriage and denied education. He urged government, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to work collectively in dismantling such barriers.
At the close of the event, participants pledged to intensify advocacy, dismantle socio-economic obstacles, and support policies that guarantee every Nigerian girl access to quality education, free from discrimination and early marriage.
