The Nasarawa State government has urged parents to prioritise the education and empowerment of the girl-child due to its importance in nation-building and societal development.

Margaret Elayo, the state’s commissioner for women affairs and humanitarian services, made the call at a press conference on Friday in Lafia, ahead of the commemoration of the 2025 International Women’s Day.

According to the commissioner, educating girls is crucial for the development of the state and the country at large.

She pointed out that parents must prioritise the education of their female children to enable them to become self-reliant and contribute to the country’s development.

Ms Elayo emphasised the significance of proper upbringing and encouraged parents to instil moral values in their children to prevent moral decadence.

The commissioner said the ministry was working assiduously to ensure that girls were not seen hawking during school hours.

“This initiative aims to keep girls in school, promoting their education and empowerment to enable them to achieve their potential,” she added.

On the theme of the 2025 International Women’s Day, “Accelerate Action,” Ms Elayo said the ministry would activate programmes that would improve the welfare of women in the state.

“We are already doing a lot to empower women, and we will still do more to ensure that women take their rightful place in the scheme of things,” she said.

She lauded Governor Abdullahi Sule for allowing women to serve in various capacities in the state.

The International Women’s Day is observed on March 8 every year.

The day is used to celebrate everything that women have achieved whilst also calling for equality.

(NAN)