•Lechi Eke
Lagos is geering up to host a groundbreaking event celebrating the International Day of the Girl Child in a powerful convergence of global vision and local action. The initiative, spearheaded by FinishedWork, is scheduled for Friday, October 25, at the prestigious Afe Babalola Hall, University of Lagos (UNILAG).
The two-hour programme, aligned with the UN’s 2024 theme “Girls Vision for the Future,” will feature an innovative mix of speeches, dramatic performances, and literary competitions with cash prizes, aimed at amplifying young female voices and fostering educational empowerment.
“This event represents a crucial step in our ongoing mission to liberate and empower the girl child through education,” says Lechi Eke, a prominent literature scholar, event organiser and convener the popular ReadingCafe. The initiative has already garnered international attention, with both UNFPA and UNICEF serving as observers.#A highlight of this year’s event is the International Girl Child Magazine, which features contributions from senior UNFPA officials and serves as a platform for global dialogue on girl-child rights. The publication invites organisations and individuals to demonstrate their support through advertising, with proceeds supporting educational initiatives.
Among those expected at the event are: Dr (Mrs) Harriet Nkechi Akubuiro, president and chairman- in-Council, Chartered Loan and Risk Management of Nigeria, Prof. Bose Afolayan, Professor of English, Department of English, University of Lagos, Mrs Ayodeji Megbope, Founder/CEO, No Left Overs Nigeria Limited and H. E. Hajia Hauwa Umma Jigawa, former first lady, Jigawa State.
The event organisers emphasise that their mission extends beyond a single day of celebration, focusing on sustainable change through awareness, voice amplification and poverty reduction. With the backing of international organisations and local advocates, this initiative marks a significant step forward in the fight for girl-child rights and education in Nigeria and beyond.