In commemoration of the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child, SheForum Africa, in collaboration with the FCT Women Affairs and Children Secretariat, the Embassy of Finland, and Pathfinder International, convened an “Adolescents’ Townhall and Mentorship Day” to spotlight the resilience and leadership potential of girls amid crisis.
The event brought together adolescent girls and boys from diverse secondary schools across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) under this year’s theme: “THE GIRL I AM, THE CHANGE I LEAD: GIRLS ON THE FRONTLINE OF CRISIS.”
Founder of SheForum Africa, Inimfon Etuk, articulated the call to action underscoring the multiple crises affecting girls today: “We know that the world is in a crisis situation, not limited to war or torn areas alone. We face crises in gender-based violence, education, health, and social welfare. Women are custodians of grassroots economies, but change must begin with girls. Today’s girls must feel empowered to lead the change their communities need. They have voices that can impact their localities. This year’s theme moves us all to action — primarily to invest in girls’ education. Education is the foundation of leadership development.
“At SheForum Africa, we put our money where our mouth is, supporting scholarships for children from indigent homes because they can make the world better, but only if educated and supported.”
On government policies, Etuk stressed, “Women and young girls, especially in crises like IDP camps, bear the brunt of displacement effects — exposure to abuse and malnutrition. Governments must minimise crisis impacts in communities. Citizens should not be forced to abandon homes and live in deplorable conditions when governance systems are in place. Security of life is a government priority. Children, especially girls, must be central to governance decisions. We urge government to domesticate policies that support child development, maternal health, education, and infrastructure to make life meaningful and enable citizens to contribute positively to national development.”
Country Director of Pathfinder International Nigeria, Amina Dorayi, reinforced the empowering message to girls and society: “To our girls, you are enough and the change we need. You are strong and will make Nigeria greater. To government, girls are already leading, and you must ensure they have the structures and tools to thrive and live chosen lives. To communities and parents, continue supporting girls and boys alike. Boys should be proud partners of girls in progress. Together, we will build a better nation.”
Mandate Secretary of FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, reminded that empowering a girl child empowers the nation. “This day encourages girls to know they can be unique, courageous, and talented. Decisions affecting children must prioritise their interests.”
Represented by Director of Child Development Department at FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, Idris Attah, she noted the FCT Minister’s approval of December 10 annually to celebrate the girl child locally, adding this year was the second edition.
Trade Officer at the Embassy of Finland, Maria Ruuskanen, expressed hope inspired by the girls present: “Girls on the frontlines of crisis show courage amid challenges like climate change and inequality. Empowering girls is the most effective way to build peaceful and prosperous societies. Leadership begins with everyday acts of standing up for what is right. The world needs your energy and compassion — you are leaders today, not just tomorrow.”
Director of Public Policy at Wellbeing Foundation Africa, Rasheed Yusuf, called on stakeholders to provide an enabling environment for girls to thrive, emphasizing community and government roles in supporting young girls and women.
Voices of the adolescent beneficiaries echoed the empowerment theme. Ifeoluwa Adeyemo from Girls Secondary School Kwali Abuja said, “The theme means we should stand up for our rights; we are the change. Investing in girls is investing in a nation. Our generation is one of progress, peace, and prosperity. Together, we break silence and amplify our voices.”
Similarly, Dinatu Joseph, from KNOSK N100-a-day Charity School in Kuje, and a scholarship beneficiary of SheForum and who was also the master of ceremony for the event shared, “I learned I do not need permission slips to make changes. I can dream big, solve problems, and lead change starting from my community.”
Representing physically challenged girls, Munirat Mohammed from GSS Kwali Abuja highlighted the need for education and special schools for disabled girls to realize their potential and contribute responsibly to society: “We have potential; empowering us is essential.”
