The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) said they would continue to prioritise comprehensive sexuality education (CSE) and support policies around gender-based violence (GBV) and girl-child education in Nigeria.

AHF said this in a statement signed by its country programme director, Echey Ijezie, and made available to journalists on Friday in Makurdi.

International Day of the Girl (IDG) is observed annually on October 11.

Mr Ijezie said AHF Nigeria would commemorate IDG 2024 with a special event at Keffi, Nasarawa State, on Monday, October 14, to amplify the voices and visions of girls and young women.

The country director said they would also use the event to advocate for CSE-supportive policies around GBV and menstrual health management.

He stated that they would bring together out-of-school girls from Garaku, Sabongida, and Jigwada to join students from high schools in Keffi in a public ceremony to commemorate the day of the girl.

Mr Ijezie said they had earlier brought together peer leaders from the communities for a pre-event orientation on GBV, menstrual health, and building life skills.

According to him, there would be a session on GBV and menstrual health management with free distribution of sanitary pads and traditional dancers on hand to provide entertainment.

“Abuja and Benue, AHF Girls Act members shall be involved in community advocacy to commemorate the IDG and shall host a virtual session to look at the challenges facing the girls with a dedicated podcast reviewing issues.

“The unique way to empower our girls today is for us as a people to commit to breaking down gender stereotypes, which drives the violence women and girls go through in our society.

“For a start, we must ensure we expand the access that girls have to education, provide comprehensive healthcare, and empower them economically.

“We must also ensure that girls have a voice and a seat at the table where decisions about their wellbeing are being made,” he said.

He said girls and young women worldwide face significant barriers to education, employment, and healthcare.

The IDG aims to promote comprehensive sexuality education and gender equality, raising awareness and helping girls live healthier, empowered lives.

(NAN)