Abuja: An NGO, African Girl’s Guide (AGG), has empowered more than 37 women through a 12-week mentorship and leadership programme aimed at fostering national development. The Founder, Mr. Jindu Elueze, disclosed this during the Graduation and Award Ceremony of the leadership programme, held on Sunday in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Elueze mentioned that the organisation is expanding its women empowerment initiative to Nigeria and Ghana. The graduates of the programme showed commitment, learning, and personal growth during the 12-week course. Elueze shared that his journey to the U.S. inspired him to empower young African women through mentorship and leadership. The initiative originally began by feeding homeless pets and their families before evolving into a recognised movement in Chicago, U.S. Despite the recognition received in America, Elueze remains focused on giving back to the continent that raised him.
Dr. Binyerem Ukaire, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and National Orientation, praised the organisation for sustaining programmes centered on leadership, mentorship, employability, entrepreneurship, and personal development. Represented by Mrs. Aisha Dabena, Ukaire highlighted that these programmes are essential in preparing young Nigerian women to contribute meaningfully to national development through acquired knowledge, confidence, and skills. He noted that the programme’s successful completion demonstrated young women’s capacity to become effective leaders when offered opportunities, guidance, exposure, and commitment. Ukaire encouraged the graduates to embrace continuous learning, innovation, and ethical leadership.
The Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Mr. Ola Olukoyede, urged the graduates to lead with purpose, serve others, and uphold integrity. Represented by Mrs. Aisha Mohammed, Olukoyede emphasized the need for young people committed to positive change, stating that law enforcement alone cannot curb corruption, highlighting the importance of proper upbringing and integrity training.
Mrs. Binta Bello, Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to protecting human dignity. Represented by Mrs. Kehinde Akomolafe, Bello urged the graduates to be aware of their rights, guard their dreams, and verify opportunities to avoid trafficking and exploitation.
Additionally, the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency, Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, stressed that leadership is about creating positive change and inspiring others. Represented by Mrs. Margaret Yenami, Issa-Onilu encouraged the graduates to be trustworthy, courageous, responsible, and patriotic, while emphasizing the importance of representing Nigeria positively and upholding values that promote national development.
The leadership programme’s winner, Miss Ezechukwu Chidinma, expressed gratitude for her achievement and promised to contribute more to her community.