The Family and Youth Support Initiative (FYSI), a non-governmental organisation, says female adolescents in schools should start taking up leadership roles.
Bukoladeremi Ladigbolu, executive director of the organisation, spoke on Wednesday during an interactive session to mark the 2023 international day of the girl child in Lagos.
The session held at the Ikotun Junior High School, in Alimosho LGA of Lagos.
Girls child day is celebrated annually on October 12 to appreciate the strength and potential of adolescent girls across the world.
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Ladigbolu said girls need to take charge of their futures by seeking leadership positions, adding that they must stop playing second fiddle to their male counterparts.
“As girls, you must always aim at surpassing boys in all activities. You have limitless potentials to be leaders. Girls are meant for the top,” she said.
“Leadership is not reserved for the males. So, be determined to compete with the boys for every position. It is not impossible for one of you here to become the first female president of Nigeria.
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“That is why UNICEF chose the theme, ‘Invest in the Girl’s rights: Our leadership, our wellbeing,’ for this year’s celebration.
“The theme underscores the need for girls to take up more leadership roles in the society and it begins right from now that you’re in school.
“Another important point that has been said over and over is the need for girls to begin to dominate the field of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and thereby position yourselves as change agents and decision-makers who will shape the future of the universe.
“As stated by UNICEF Nigeria, government needs to pay more attention to girls’ education and also strengthen legislation that protects them from harmful cultural practices.”
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Ladigbolu added that the government needs to create platforms where young girls can express themselves, learn and thrive.
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