As the world celebrates the International Day of the Girl Child, a non-governmental organisation, Gender Educators Initiative (GEI), has appealed to the Federal Government to make the safety and well-being of girls in conflict zones a national priority.
The group’s Executive Director, Shafa’atu Suleiman, made the call on Friday during a sensitisation programme on menstrual hygiene held for female students in various private schools across Sokoto State. The event was part of activities marking the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child.
Suleiman expressed deep concern over how rising insecurity, poverty, and displacement have continued to affect the lives of young girls, especially in northern Nigeria. She warned that these conditions have made many of them vulnerable to abuse, gender-based violence, and early marriage.
“Thousands of girls in northern Nigeria are growing up amid crisis — from insurgency to banditry and forced displacement,” she said. “Many have lost access to education, healthcare, and the basic sense of safety every child deserves. It is therefore important for the government, development partners, and community leaders to act quickly to protect and empower them.”
According to Okay News, Suleiman further explained that creating safe spaces within internally displaced persons (IDP) camps and affected communities would help girls receive psychosocial support and continue their education even during crisis. She said such initiatives would also provide mentorship and give them hope for a better future.
“When girls are safe, educated, and empowered, entire communities benefit,” she added. “Investing in girls means investing in peace and development.”
The GEI Executive Director urged the Ministries of Women Affairs, Education, and Humanitarian Affairs to work together with civil society groups in creating gender-sensitive programs that address the needs of girls in conflict-affected areas.
As part of its outreach activities, GEI also organised a menstrual hygiene campaign to educate girls on how to properly manage their health during their periods.
Speaking at Sahaba Academy in Sokoto, the school’s principal, Mrs. Ana, praised GEI for its commitment to improving the welfare of young girls. The school proprietor, Ahmed S. Fada, also appealed to the government to pay more attention to girls’ education and ensure schools are equipped with the right facilities to promote hygiene and comfort.
The organisation’s programme officer, Linda Idoko, encouraged students to be confident in their identity as young women and to care for their health.
“Being a woman is something to be proud of. Our organisation uses this opportunity to teach girls how to maintain proper menstrual hygiene and use safe products that protect their health,” she said.
This year’s International Day of the Girl Child, themed “The Girl That I Am, The Change I Lead,” highlights the need to empower girls to become agents of change within their communities.
Reaffirming GEI’s dedication to promoting gender equality, Suleiman noted that no girl should be left behind because of her background or the challenges she faces.
