In a symbolic handover that spotlighted the challenges and potential of Nigeria’s girl-child, Joy Ogah, a teenage advocate, assumed the role of Vice President for a day—an initiative facilitated by PLAN International and embraced by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
The event, held during a courtesy visit by PLAN International’s delegation led by Helen Mfonobong Idiong, underscored the Tinubu administration’s ongoing commitment to girl-child education and gender inclusion.
Addressing the delegation at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Vice President Shettima reaffirmed the federal government’s support for girl-child education, citing key interventions including the national school feeding programme.
“We will continue the engagement with PLAN International and see where the force and strength of government can be brought to bear on your solid advice on girl-child education,” he stated.
He further praised the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, as a living example of female empowerment, recalling her active role in legislative debates while in the Senate, especially on issues concerning girls’ education.
“In President Bola Tinubu, you have an ally you can believe in and invest your trust in,” Shettima said.
“I want to assure you, on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, that this government is gender-friendly. We believe in inclusivity. We cannot disenfranchise half of our population and expect to grow as a nation.”
In a bold and symbolic gesture, Shettima vacated his seat for Joy Ogah, offering her a platform to speak for Nigerian girls.
Stepping into the Vice President’s seat, Ogah delivered a passionate address calling for urgent and inclusive action on girl-child education.
“I may be the Vice President for a day, but the struggles I represent cannot end in a day. They must continue in our policies, our classrooms, our conversations, and our budgets,” Ogah said.
She highlighted the stark reality that 10.5 million children in Nigeria remain out of school, with girls accounting for over 60% of that figure.
“Every girl deserves a classroom, a choice, dignity, and not silence,” she declared, calling for increased investment in safe, inclusive, and accessible education systems.
Ogah also emphasized the need for protective policies and practical support for girls, including the provision of free sanitary products, water, sanitation, and nutrition in schools. “When girls are protected, peace becomes possible,” she added.
PLAN International’s Helen Mfonobong Idiong noted that girls globally are facing multiple crises, and Nigeria is no exception.
She highlighted the organization’s impact across Nigeria, stating, “We have been working across Nigeria to improve the lives of children,” and referenced earlier advocacy efforts including a girl-child take-over of the Speaker’s seat in 2024, which led to the removal of VAT on sanitary pads and diapers.
Ogah commended the Nigerian government for heeding that call. “The girl’s request had since been implemented following the passage and signing into law of the Tax Reforms Act,” she noted.
She further urged the government to remain steadfast in ensuring that schools are affordable and accessible, so that “no girl is left behind.”