The Lagos government, through its Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, has charged the girl-child to remain diligent in all endeavours.

The executive secretary of DSVA, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, gave the charge during a programme commemorating the 2025 International Day of the Girl-Child, observed annually on October 11.

Ms Vivour-Adeniyi, in a statement on Sunday in Lagos, urged girls never to believe they were less than enough, stressing that they were leaders in the making.

She noted that this year’s theme reminded everyone that every girl deserved a life free from violence, discrimination, and fear. According to her, stakeholders must invest in girls’ rights as they represent the nation’s future and the leaders of tomorrow.

Ms Vivour-Adeniyi said that in girls’ dreams, courage, and voices lay the promise of a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Nigeria. She lamented that too many girls still face abuse, early marriage, exploitation, and barriers to education, even within communities.

She stated that the Lagos government, under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, would continue prioritising policies and programmes that protect girls’ rights.

Ms Vivour-Adeniyi stressed that when girls are educated, protected, and empowered, they transform families, communities, and entire nations. She called on parents, teachers, community leaders, and policymakers to build a Lagos where every girl can thrive safely and confidently.

The president of the International Women’s Society, Olufunke Oduwole, described the girls as special, worthy of love, and deserving of respect. Ms Oduwole said girls must know their fundamental rights and always speak up, especially on gender-based violence, to ensure they are heard and respected.

The founder of Unveiling Royalty Empowerment Foundation, Judith Ayodele, urged girls to remain focused, build character, and develop resilience.

Ms Ayodele advised girls to identify their goals, stay committed, and avoid distractions such as peer pressure and low self-esteem.

The lead coach at Smart Stewards, Sola Adesakin, encouraged girls to start building wealth and personal value early in life. Ms Adesakin added that it was important for girls to have a clear vision for a successful future.

“Nothing guarantees a good future like a correct picture, and you cannot feature in a future you can’t picture,” she said.

(NAN)