First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Remi Tinubu, has reaffirmed the commitment of the federal government and development partners to advancing girls’ education, stating that no child should be denied the opportunity to learn due to social or economic barriers.
Speaking at the launch of the Adolescent Girls Initiative for Learning and Empowerment (AGILE) Additional Financing to States and the AGILE Games Award Ceremony held at the State House in Abuja to mark Children’s Day, Mrs Tinubu described Nigerian children as “the heartbeat of the nation.”
In a statement by her media aide, Busola Kukoyi, she called on them to embrace education, creativity, and the belief that their potential to transform the country is limitless.
“Every child represented here today has demonstrated what is possible when opportunity meets support,” the first lady said. “Whether or not you receive an award today, you are all champions. Keep learning, keep creating, and know that your potential to make a real difference in Nigeria is limitless.”
The World Bank-supported AGILE project, which aims to reduce the number of out-of-school children and keep more girls in school, is one of the most extensive education programmes in the country. Senator Tinubu said the initiative reaffirms the Tinubu administration’s recognition of education as a pillar of development.
She also announced two upcoming programmes under her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) to further support young Nigerians. The first is the introduction of Environment Clubs in secondary schools and Environment Societies in tertiary institutions nationwide to promote environmental responsibility and tree planting. The second, Flow with Confidence, is a hygiene programme that will provide a year’s supply of sanitary pads to adolescent girls in rural communities to help them stay in school during their menstrual cycle.
“To our dear students, please go to school and complete your education,” she said. “Staying in school and excelling in your studies will give you the knowledge and skills you need for a good future.”
In his remarks, Minister of Education Dr Tunji Alausa described the AGILE programme as a milestone in the administration’s drive to deepen its commitment to education. He noted that education is not only a human right but also a national security imperative.
“Every textbook is a brick in the foundation of peace and prosperity. Every school meal is an act of social justice. And every trained teacher is a guardian of our collective future,” Alausa said.
Also speaking, the World Bank country director, Mr Taimur Samad, noted that AGILE is the second-largest education project funded by the organisation. He revealed that with two-thirds of girls in Nigeria dropping out before completing school, the World Bank hopes to reach 50 million students through the AGILE programme.
State governors present at the event, including those of Borno and Taraba, pledged their continued support for prioritising education for the girl child.
The event featured awards for winners of the AGILE Games across various categories. A touching moment came when a special needs student, Awelewa, presented a painting to the First Lady, symbolising Nigerian children’s creative potential and resilience.
The ceremony concluded with a strong message of hope and commitment to inclusive education, particularly for girls, as the nation marked Children’s Day under the theme of empowerment, opportunity, and renewed hope.
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