The Lighted Women Foundation has urged both Nigerians and the global community to invest in children especially girls highlighting their vital role as future leaders and agents of positive change.
The organization made this appeal during its celebration of the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child, held on Saturday at Prudent Brain School in Effurun, Delta State.
Speaking at the event, the founder of the foundation, Mrs. Ejiro John, Esq., emphasized the importance of honoring girls who dream big, persevere through challenges, and remain strong in the face of adversity.
“In every corner of the world, October 11 is recognized by the United Nations as a day to celebrate the girl child,” she said. “It’s a time to acknowledge their potential, power, and the promise they hold for a better future.”
Mrs. John explained that the foundation chose to celebrate the girl-child because, despite their unique talents and qualities, girls are often pushed to the background by society. She noted that many girls also face various forms of social violence, including rape.
She emphasized that while girls are sometimes seen as the “weaker vessel,” they are, in reality, powerful agents of change and the kind of leaders the world truly needs.
Mrs. John urged parents to raise their children especially girls with care, and to invest in their future through education, so they can play meaningful roles in building the nation.
She also reminded the girls that they are special and created by God for a purpose. She encouraged them to make positive choices in life, stay focused, and avoid bad influences that could lead them into prostitution or other harmful behaviors.
In her words, Mrs. John encouraged the girls by saying, “You are talented and unique there is greatness within you. You’re not here by accident; you were born for a purpose. You’re not ‘just a girl’ by mistake, so be confident and let your voice be heard. No matter the challenges, or what society or even your parents may say, only you have the power to change your story.”
She told the girls they have the potential to achieve greatness and contribute meaningfully to nation-building, just like Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director General of the World Trade Organization; Dr. Hayat Sindi, a Saudi scientist and innovator; and Kamala Harris, the first Black woman to become Vice President of the United States.
Also speaking at the event, Mrs. Iroro Akpodovan, Esq., said the girl-child represents the future of the nation, pointing out that without girls, there would be no men. She described the girl-child in Nigeria as an “endangered species,” highlighting the many challenges they face, including lack of access to education, sexual abuse, ignorance, and poverty often caused by parents’ inability to provide proper care. This, she said, leaves children vulnerable to all kinds of abuse.
However, she noted that the government has introduced laws to protect the rights of girls, including their right to education. She encouraged the girls to prioritize education as a path to becoming empowered, successful individuals in the future.
Other speakers at the event included Ukeke Ogochukwu Gloria, a medical professional, who spoke on the topic of Women’s Hygiene, and Karo Emuakpeje from the Nigerian Girl Guides, who addressed The Need to Empower the Girl-Child to Dream Big and Break Barriers in all areas of life.
The event also featured lively performances by students from Prudent Brain and UNIBEST Schools, including dances, dramas, debates, poetry recitations, and more, all put together to entertain the guests.
