In recognition of the International Day of the Girl Child, Hon. Chief Adeniyi Ismail Oluwatosin (AIO), an influential chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Boluwaduro, Ifedayo, and Ila Federal Constituency, has joined the global community in celebrating girls around the world. He described the day as a powerful reminder of the limitless potential of the girl child and a call to action for leaders, parents, and policymakers to continue breaking down the barriers that hinder her growth and expression.
AIO emphasized that girls everywhere are leading waves of transformation, from climate activism and technological innovation to peacebuilding and leadership for equality. Yet, he lamented, too many girls are still denied access to their fundamental right to education, protection, and participation in nation-building. He noted that while progress over the decades has been remarkable, there remains a critical need for renewed commitment and collective responsibility.
He recalled that since 1995, the world has made significant strides in advancing education for girls. Nearly 91 million more girls are now enrolled in primary school, and 136 million more have access to secondary education. Equally inspiring is the fact that women’s enrolment in tertiary institutions has tripled, reaching 139 million globally. These figures, he said, demonstrate humanity’s capacity to create positive change when the will to do so exists.
However, AIO expressed deep concern that 133 million girls remain out of school, a sobering statistic that reminds us that progress is uneven and fragile. He stressed that education is not a privilege but a birthright, and no society can truly prosper when its daughters are silenced, sidelined, or subjugated.
Reflecting on the significance of this year’s observance, AIO highlighted that 2025 marks thirty years since the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, a landmark global commitment that urged governments to eliminate gender discrimination in education and ensure equal opportunities for girls. Encouragingly, 114 countries have now written this right into their constitutions or national laws, signaling a growing recognition of the essential role of girls in shaping the future.
“On this International Day of the Girl,” AIO stated, “we celebrate the strength, resilience, and brilliance of every girl, the young minds who dream beyond boundaries and challenge stereotypes. When girls are given the opportunity to learn, they lead; and when they lead, humanity as a whole advances.”
He called on governments at all levels to prioritize girl-child education as a cornerstone of national development. Beyond mere enrolment, AIO urged stakeholders to ensure safe learning environments, equal access to technology, mentorship opportunities, and inclusion in decision-making processes. He also appealed to parents, teachers, and community leaders to nurture the confidence of girls and encourage them to aspire beyond limitations.
AIO further praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his administration’s steady efforts to promote inclusive education and youth empowerment through programs that enhance learning opportunities for both boys and girls. He urged the continuation and expansion of such initiatives, emphasizing that investing in girls’ education is one of the most powerful strategies to end poverty, reduce inequality, and build a prosperous Nigeria.
He concluded with an inspiring message:
“Let every girl know that she matters. Her dreams are valid. Her voice deserves to be heard. Her education is a key not just to her own freedom, but to the progress of humanity. When we lift up a girl, we uplift generations.”
Hon. Chief Adeniyi Ismail Oluwatosin (AIO) once again reaffirmed his strong support for every initiative that advances the dignity, education, and empowerment of the girl child, because when girls thrive, our communities flourish and the future of our nation shines brighter.