The Katsina government has promised to continue to invest in education, empowerment, and protection initiatives that enable girls to realise their full potential.

The special adviser to Governor Dikko Radda on girl-child education, Jamila Abdu-Mani, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday.

Ms Abdu-Mani, who made the statement to mark the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child, said the investment would enable the child to contribute meaningfully to society. This year’s theme is ‘The Girl I Am, the Change I Lead: Girls on the Frontlines of Crisis’.

The special adviser said that the theme underscored the collective responsibility to ensure that every girl was empowered, protected, and given equal opportunities to thrive.

“In line with this year’s theme, the Katsina government under Mr Radda’s visionary leadership, remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting the rights and well-being of the girl-child.

Ms Abdu-Mani said, “Through my office, the government had renovated and equipped skills acquisition centres in Katsina, Kaita, Funtua, and Baure LGAs. At these centres, young girls are being trained in various vocations such as tailoring, catering, ICT, and other income-generating skills.”

According to her, these centres are designed to enhance self-reliance and reduce vulnerability among girls, in addition to the establishment of a world-class Sexual Assault Referral Centre (NASIHA SARC).

The special adviser said that the centre provides comprehensive medical, psychosocial, and legal support to survivors of gender-based violence.

She added, “This initiative demonstrates the government’s resolve to protect girls and women from all forms of abuse and exploitation. As crises, whether social, economic, or environmental, continue to affect lives globally, this year’s theme reminds us that girls are not passive victims but active agents of change.

“The Department recognises the resilience and leadership of girls who are shaping their communities and remains committed to creating opportunities that nurture their talents and voices.”

Ms Abdu-Mani called on parents, community leaders, civil society organisations, and development partners to continue collaborating with the government to advance the cause of the girls.

“Together, we can build a Katsina state where every girl is safe, educated, confident, and empowered to lead change, no matter the circumstances,” she said.

(NAN)