Abuja:Stakeholders at the inaugural African Girls Assembly have emphasized the need for early investment in girls’ leadership skills and confidence to tackle the underrepresentation of women in leadership roles.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the assembly took place in Abuja on Saturday, ahead of the International Day of the Girl Child, which is marked annually on October 11. Convened by the Educate a Woman Initiative under the theme ‘Empowered Girls, Transformational Leaders,’ the event aimed to empower girls, amplify their voices, and prepare them for leadership roles across Africa.
Mrs. Joy Aderele, Convener of the assembly and Country Director of Self Help Africa, highlighted the importance of providing girls with early opportunities to develop leadership skills and confidence. She stressed the need for investment in girls to build their confidence, agency, and networks from a young age.
Participants from Zambia and The Gambia attended the assembly, with hopes expressed for broader participation from other African countries in future editions.
Mrs. Love Idoko-Uloko, Founder of Activate Success International Foundation, encouraged girls to overcome fear and pursue their ambitions. She emphasized that leadership is about making a difference and solving problems, not just about being the loudest voice.
Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, Director-General and Chief Executive Officer of the Maryam Babangida National Centre for Women Development, urged girls to recognize their leadership potential and align their choices with their values.
Ellen Hahne, Head of Political and Trade Affairs at the Swedish Embassy in Abuja, acknowledged the participants’ leadership demonstrated through their school and community activities. She reinforced Sweden’s commitment to gender equality and urged girls to use their voices to influence positive change.
Participants Eleora Aderemi and Perfecta Silas stressed the importance of girls speaking up for their rights and believing in their abilities, regardless of gender-related challenges. The assembly also featured spoken-word performances and panel discussions on rights and advocacy.