The Save the Child Initiative (STCI), in collaboration with Kebbi Youth Connect Initiative (KYCI) and Helping Hands Grassroots Support Foundation (HHGSF), has called for strengthened efforts to promote girls’ rights and leadership in Kebbi.

The call was made in Birnin Kebbi on Saturday while commemorating the ‘2025 International Day of the Girl Child’, celebrated globally.

This year’s theme is: “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead.”

Speaking at the event, the state coordinator, Network Against Child Trafficking, Abuse and Labour, Kabiru Musa, said the commemoration provided an opportunity to engage government, civil society, and the media on advancing the welfare and empowerment of girls.

He said the theme underscored the importance of identity, confidence and leadership among girls.

Mr Musa also stressed that it was time to support girls not only to dream but also to lead change in governance, education, health, technology and social development.

“The partnership seeks to promote advocacy, mentorship, and awareness to tackle poor education access, reproductive health issues, harmful practices, and girls’ underrepresentation in decision-making,” he said.

Mr Musa also called for increased investment in girl-focused initiatives and the implementation of gender-responsive policies to enable girls to reach their full potential.

“We must continue to work together to ensure that every girl in the state learns, leads and thrives in a safe and supportive environment,” he said.

Mr Musa commended the state government, development partners and civil society organisations (CSOs) for their roles in promoting gender equality and youth inclusion and urged sustained collaboration.

He, however, emphasised the vital role of the media as a partners in amplifying girls’ voices and ensuring accountability in achieving gender equity.

“When girls are empowered to lead, communities prosper and nations become stronger,” the coordinator said.

International Day of the Girl Child is observed annually on October 11 to highlight and address the needs and challenges girls face while promoting their empowerment and the fulfilment of their human rights.

The United Nations declared the day in 2011 to recognise girls’ rights and the unique challenges they encounter across the world.

(NAN)