Vice President Kashim Shettima has restated President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to advancing girl-child education across Nigeria, assuring that the Federal Government remains focused on inclusive learning and empowerment initiatives for young girls.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by a delegation from PLAN International led by its Director of Programme, Quality, and Innovation, Helen Mfonobong Idiong, at the State House, Abuja, Shettima emphasized that the administration views education for girls as critical to national development.
He noted that programmes such as the school feeding initiative continue to play a vital role in improving access and retention among school-age children, particularly girls.
> “We will continue to work with partners like PLAN International and deploy government’s strength where your advice and interventions can make the greatest impact,” Shettima said.
He added that President Tinubu remains a strong ally of girl-child education and inclusivity, describing First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu as a shining example of how empowered girls can evolve into transformational leaders.
> “In President Bola Tinubu, you have an ally you can trust. This government is gender-friendly and deeply invested in inclusivity. We cannot disenfranchise half of our population and expect progress,” he affirmed.
In a symbolic gesture highlighting youth inclusion, the Vice President invited Joy Ogah, a teenage advocate from PLAN International, to occupy his seat as “Vice President for a Day.”
Seated in the VP’s chair, Ogah expressed appreciation for the opportunity and used the platform to advocate stronger policies protecting the rights of girls in Nigeria.
> “Across Nigeria, 10.5 million children are out of school, and over 60 per cent are girls,” she said. “Every girl deserves a classroom, a choice, dignity, and not silence.”
Ogah urged the government and development partners to make schools safe, inclusive, and accessible, calling for free sanitary products, better water and sanitation facilities, and nutrition support in schools.
> “When girls are protected, peace becomes possible,” she added. “I may be Vice President for a day, but the struggles I represent cannot end in a day.”
PLAN International, which has supported more than 11 million Nigerian children through education, entrepreneurship, and youth development initiatives, reaffirmed its commitment to collaboration with the Federal Government.
Ogah also commended the government for implementing the Tax Reforms Act, which removed Value Added Tax (VAT) on sanitary pads and diapers—a policy that originated from the advocacy of a PLAN International representative during a similar “Girls Takeover” event at the National Assembly in 2024.
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.
