The commemoration of the International Day of the Girl Child, organized by the African Women Lawyers Association, Nigeria (Lagos Branch) at Government Senior College Agege, was a significant and enlightening event. Distinguished dignitaries from the educational sector and the AWLA NIG leadership presented diverse perspectives on empowering young girls to pursue their aspirations without constraints, particularly in STEM fields, career paths, and personal growth.
Notable attendees included Mr. Sanni, the district’s Director of Education; Mrs. Adebunm Adefowoke, the Assistant Director of Education; and Mrs. Titilola Oyeshile, a teen teacher at De Cross Chapel. The esteemed President of AWLA Nigeria, Awlan Caroline Ibharuneafe, delivered the welcome address, while Awlan Olasunkanmi Fasule, Coordinator, Awla Nig, Lagos Branch introduced the association and encouraged the students to speak out when facing challenges. The event was anchored by Awlan Adesola Bello, the Asst Coordinator, Awla Nig, Lagos Branch, and other members in attendance include Awlan Felicitas Nwaobi, Vice President, Awla Nig, Awlan Julie Onyeagba, National Treasurer Awla Nig, Awlan Sherifat Busari, treasurer, Awla Nig, Lagos Branch, and some new members of the association.
The keynote speaker, Awlan Bibian Aloba, immediate past National General Secretary Awla Nig, delivered her lecture on the theme “GIRLS VISION FOR THE FUTURE.” She imparted valuable insights on realizing one’s dreams, emphasizing the significance of Definite Pessimism and the Trump Card. Furthermore, she told the students that there is “No Success Story without INTENTIONALITY.” Awlan Tawa Toriola, Asst General Secretary Awla Nig, delivered a talk on STEM AND THE GIRL CHILD. She highlighted the common misconception that science, technology, engineering, and mathematics are primarily for boys, emphasizing that this is untrue and encouraging girls to pursue opportunities in these fields. She concluded by advising the girls to search for role models and find their passion, as anyone, regardless of gender, can excel in these fields. Mrs. Oyeshile emphasized the importance of remaining focused and not succumbing to distractions, particularly in pursuing one’s dreams.
The event featured interactive sessions, games, and gifts, effectively engaging the girls and ensuring that the messages were heard and felt. The students expressed gratitude for the enlightening lectures, which significantly impacted their lives. The event’s slogan, “I AM A GIRL CHILD, I CAN BE WHATEVER I WANT TO BE,” captured the theme of promoting confidence and ambition among young girls.