By Praise Chinecherem
Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Anambra State Chapter has called on government, Stakeholders, philanthropists and individuals to contribute to the eradication of various barriers that inhibit the Girl Child.
Chairperson, Comrade Tochukwu Ifejika in a statement to mark the International Day of the Girl Child Rights, expressed believe that every girl deserved opportunity to reach her full potential.
She however underscored the need for collective responsibility to create enabling environment for the optimal actualization of the Girl Child Vision.
The statement reads, “We join the world in celebrating the Girl Child and advocating for the harnessing the great potentials that abound in them and for the empowerment to positively affect their communities.
“This yearโs theme, “Girlsโ Vision for the Future,” is apt and calls for orchestrated actions to activate the process for bringing these visions to limelight and intentionally nuture them to full bloom.
“NAWOJ, Anambra State chapter acknowledges that girls continue to face numerous challenges including gender-based violence, limited access to quality education, early marriage, and harmful traditional practices that hinder their growth.
“However, some are not deterred by such limitations but with their resilience, creativity, and strength have successfully ridden the roads of immense achievements. Leading in various sectors; governance, education, science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields.
“We believe that every girl deserves the opportunity to reach her full potential, and it is our collective responsibility to create an enabling environment for the optimal actualization of the Girl Child Vision.
“NAWOJ Anambra chapter is calling on all; government, Stakeholders, philanthropists and individuals to contribute to the eradication of various barriers that inhibit the Girl Child
“In line with the vision of NAWOJ, Anambra chapter will always advocate for access to quality education, promotion of gender equality, eradication of harmful practices, end to early marriage, sexual violence, and discrimination against girls.
“As Women Journalists, we in Anambra are poised to use the Media to re-shape the narratives and influence societal norms that are inimical to the Girl Child. We will continue to engage various institutions through advocacy and awareness programmes to highlight the rights and achievements of the Girl Child, and proactive policies that allow them to flourish.
“We also urge the government and law enforcement agencies to strengthen the implementation of laws protecting girls and women while also raising awareness within communities on the importance of safeguarding their rights.
“On this International Day of the Girl Child, NAWOJ Anambra Chapter urge us all to be intentional in our commitments to ensuring that every Nigerian girl is empowered to create the future she desires.”
