In commemoration of the International Day of the Girl Child, the wife of the Anambra State Governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo, has declared that girls are treasures, changemakers, and better leaders, urging society to recognize their unique value and invest in their development.
In a heartfelt statement released on Saturday, Dr. Soludo emphasized that any society aspiring to meaningful growth must first acknowledge the importance of the girl child. “Girls are not just daughters; they are leaders, innovators, and the heartbeat of a thriving future,” she said. “We must do everything within our power to protect, nurture, and empower them.”
As the founder of the Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo initiative, the First Lady called on families, schools, religious institutions, and communities to create environments where girls can flourish. She highlighted the Anambra State Government’s commitment to inclusivity and gender equity, noting that strategic policies have been implemented to ensure every child—regardless of gender—has access to quality education, healthcare, and opportunities for leadership.
Dr. Soludo also urged stakeholders to take intentional and sincere actions on issues affecting girls, including early marriage, gender-based violence, and limited access to education. “We must go beyond rhetoric and take bold steps to dismantle barriers that hold our girls back,” she added.
The First Lady’s remarks have been widely praised by civil society groups and education advocates, who see her as a leading voice in the movement for gender empowerment in Nigeria. Her advocacy aligns with global efforts to promote the rights and potential of girls, especially in underserved communities.