FIC Report (Abia State) – It was a celebration of hope, strength, and transformation as Abia State joined the rest of the world to mark the 2025 International Day of the Girl Child, with a resounding message that girls are not just the leaders of tomorrow but the change makers of today.
The event, held in Umuahia and organized by the Ministry of Women Affairs, resonated with this year’s global theme “The Girl I Am, The Change I Lead: Girls at the Frontlines of Crisis.” It brought together school girls, educators, policy makers, and women advocates who converged to celebrate the resilience, vision, and leadership potential of every girl child.
In her keynote message, the Wife of the Abia State Governor, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, charged girls to recognize their unique place in a world where crises can sometimes feel overwhelming, reminding them that their voices matter and must be heard.
Represented by the Wife of the Deputy Governor, Princess Adaeze Emetu, Mrs. Otti described girls as rising leaders who are “stepping up, showing incredible resilience, and leading the way in shaping a better future.”
She emphasized the transformative power of digital literacy, leadership, and education, urging parents and teachers to help girls embrace the digital space as “the great changer” that opens doors to limitless opportunities and global exposure.
“Through digital literacy, our girls can connect to the world, amplify their voices, and acquire skills that will help them thrive in a rapidly changing landscape,” Mrs. Otti stated, adding that the state government under the leadership of Governor Alex Otti remains steadfast in its commitment to empower the girl child through policies, scholarships, and development initiatives.
Earlier in her address, the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr. Mrs. Maureen Aghukwa, reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to ensuring that every girl in Abia State is protected, educated, and empowered to fulfill her purpose.
She revealed that the ministry, in partnership with local and international stakeholders, is intensifying efforts to combat all forms of abuse, trafficking, and gender-based violence, while promoting skill acquisition and mentorship programmes that instill confidence, leadership, and self-reliance in young girls.
“Every girl’s voice matters. Whether in schools, homes, or communities, they must be given platforms to express themselves, to dream, and to lead,” Dr. Aghukwa said passionately. “You are not defined by your circumstances, but by your courage, determination, and vision for change.”
The keynote speaker, Dr. Mrs. Ola Ukoha, who spoke on “The Role of Education and Technology in Amplifying Girls’ Voices in Crisis,” highlighted challenges such as gender-based violence, child trafficking, and sexual exploitation. She emphasized that prioritizing education remains the most powerful tool for breaking barriers and unlocking the potential of every girl child.
The event featured music, drama, quiz competitions, and the presentation of gifts to participating students by the wife of the Deputy Governor, adding colour and joy to the momentous occasion.
The celebration in Abia stands as a testament to international commitment toward gender equality and a reflection of Governor Alex Otti’s administration’s unwavering dedication to building a state where every girl is safe, educated, and empowered to lead.
As the curtain fell, one message echoed through the hall ,that the girl child is not a victim of circumstance but a beacon of hope, a voice for transformation, and a pillar of tomorrow’s leadership.
Signed
Abiakam Gloria Ify
HOC, FIC Umuahia Abia State.
October 23,2025.
