By Foster Akpore
Orogun, Delta State — In celebration of the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child, a sensitization program took place at Orogun Grammar School and Imodje Secondary School, aimed at empowering young girls and raising awareness about the significance of this global observance. The event was fully sponsored by Chief Do-Good O. Efe-Nogo JP at Orogun Grammar School and supported by Amb. Favour Omotejohwo Obakoro at Imodje Secondary School.
During the program, Foster Akpore addressed the students with the principal’s approval, emphasizing the power of education, hard work, and perseverance in shaping their futures. Akpore inspired the students by highlighting the achievements of influential women in society, including Chief Mrs. Bridget Eseoghene Efe-Nogo, Pastor Regina Omo-Agege, Chief Mrs. Ese Osawota, CSP Gladys Enohor Imegu, Hon. Patience Awero, Dr. Bennis Agbonifo, and Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, among others. He encouraged the girls to aspire beyond traditional roles, urging them to reject limiting stereotypes often perpetuated by popular culture.
“Your aspirations should extend to becoming global citizens who contribute meaningfully to society,” he stated, challenging students to focus on their potential rather than superficial values highlighted in media.
The President General of Orogun, Chief Barr. E.T. Opone, also addressed the attendees, emphasizing the significance of supporting the girl child. He shared the kingdom’s commitment to gender equality through the establishment of a Directorate on Women Empowerment, aimed at developing initiatives focused on leadership development, economic independence, and advocacy for the girl child. Opone highlighted that nations prioritizing the empowerment of women consistently rank high on the Human Development Index, underscoring the need for similar efforts in Orogun.
“Our Executive Council currently comprises just three women out of 21 members, which is below our target of 25%. We are committed to increasing the inclusion of women and girls in leadership within our kingdom,” he stated. He praised the efforts of Chief Do-Good O. Efe-Nogo JP and Amb. Favour Omotejohwo Obakoro for their contributions to the empowerment of girls, exemplifying the spirit of allyship essential for realizing the full potential of young women.
Akpore also stressed the importance of academic improvement, addressing gaps in spelling and current affairs. He proposed practical solutions, such as implementing literacy classes and hosting interschool spelling bees, to enhance students’ intellectual development. He noted the challenges faced by schools, particularly in rural areas, and called for collaboration among the educational authorities, community leaders, and the Directorate on Education to address staff shortages and improve educational quality.
Highlighting the role of male allies in the empowerment of girls, Akpore acknowledged the contributions of leaders like Chief Barr. E.T. Opone and Chief Barr. Benson Ndakara in supporting the cause. Notably, Dr. Otive Igbuzor received the HeForShe Award at the 8th Voice of Women Conference and Awards on October 3, 2024, in Abuja for his efforts in promoting education and empowering the girl child.
To enhance visibility and engagement, students participated in discussions about their dreams and future aspirations while holding placards featuring empowering messages aligned with this year’s theme: “Girls’ Vision for the Future.” The placards conveyed key messages, including:
“Empower Girls, Secure the Future!”
“When Girls Lead, We All Succeed!”
“Invest in Girls Today for a Sustainable Tomorrow!”
The event not only sparked enthusiasm among students but also underscored the immense potential of girls in Orogun and the need for consistent investment in their education.
Moving forward, the program emphasized the importance of strengthening partnerships between educational authorities and community leaders to ensure the sustained success of initiatives aimed at empowering the girl child. The collective involvement of male leaders serves as a vital reminder of the importance of allyship in championing gender equality.
As the International Day of the Girl Child highlights the power of girls’ voices, both Akpore and Opone reiterated the collective responsibility to support their aspirations and provide them with the necessary tools for success. With continued collaboration and investment, the future looks bright for the next generation of female leaders and change-makers in Orogun Kingdom and beyond.