By Wisdom Agbonta
Towards supporting the girl child in achieving full potentials in society, the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development has welcomed collaboration with the Edo State Youth Parliament on an initiative tagged, “From Fear to Fierce; Empowering the Girl Child.”
The partnership was the outcome of the Ministry’s engagement with the Parliament at the Ministry’s Premises in Benin City. The Commissioner, Chief Bisi Idaomi, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Joy Ihensekhien, appreciated the initiative of empowering every girl child in the State, stating its alignment with the Ministry’s mandate.
While emphasizing the importance of girls embracing leadership roles, making informed decisions, and knowing their rights, Chief Idaomi highlighted the remarkable progress being made by the Ministry towards empowering the girl child.
She asserted that women are increasingly taking centre stage and assuming leadership roles, saying that the development boosts the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to amplifying the voices of women and girls, ensuring they are heard and valued.
While reiterating the importance of mentorship as part of empowerment for the girl child, Chief Idaomi stated, “The leaders of tomorrow start today. So, when you catch them young at this age, they will do exploits and they will become wonderful in the future.”
In a remark, the Deputy Speaker of the Parliament, Hon. Ohangbon Lisa Ebuwa, appreciated the impactful works of the State Government, particularly in advocating for the protection of the girl child and combating GBV in the State.
Hon. Ohangbon outlined the key objectives of the Initiative which included educating young girls about their rights and safety, as well as raising awareness about GBV and early exploitation. She emphasized the importance of collaborating with the Ministry and solicited endorsement and technical support to ensure the success of the Initiative.
Present at the engagement were the Director of Shared Services, Mrs. Juliet Ehigie; the Director of Rehabilitation, Mr. Okoeguale Sylvester; the Director of Women Affairs, Mrs. Florence Nwaozor; the Director of Finance, Mrs. Mary A. Ikhaijagbe; amongst others.
