By Olaide Ajibola, JKNMedia Reporter
PRESIDENT BOLA Tinubu spearheaded the launch of a multifaceted campaign aimed at fostering inclusive education, skill development, and gender equality across Africa.
Dubbed #WeAreEqual, the initiative, led by the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), spans 15 African nations, concentrating on critical areas such as health, education, economic empowerment, and gender-based violence.
In Nigeria, the campaign, titled ‘Education as a Powerful Tool for Change,’ received robust backing from Senator Oluremi Tinubu, the First Lady of Nigeria.
At the State House launch event, President Tinubu applauded the dedication of African First Ladies within OAFLAD to drive gender parity initiatives continent-wide.
Highlighting the campaign’s significance, President Tinubu stressed the pivotal role of education in Africa’s advancement, particularly in achieving gender equity and equal opportunities for all.
He emphasized the imperative of ensuring every child, especially girls, access to quality education to foster societal inclusivity and resilience.
President Tinubu underscored Nigeria’s commitment to the campaign, spotlighting the reintroduction of the Alternative High School for Girls spearheaded by the First Lady. This initiative offers a second chance for girls who have dropped out of school to pursue their education and aspirations.
Drawing from his experience as Lagos State Governor, President Tinubu highlighted societal challenges hindering girls’ futures and praised the Lagos State model as an inspiration for the national effort.
Ajuri Ngelale, the President’s Special Adviser on Media & Publicity, conveyed President Tinubu’s firm belief that education forms the bedrock of national progress and emphasized the transformative impact of empowering girls on communities and economies.
President Tinubu called for concerted efforts to dismantle structural barriers holding women back, stressing the crucial role of laws, policies, and investments in girls’ education and skills development. He highlighted key government initiatives such as the Student’s Loan (Access to Higher Education) Act and the N50,000 non-repayable grant programme aimed at empowering Nigerians, especially women and youth, in various sectors.
Committing to combat gender-based violence and create safe learning environments for girls, President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to ensuring every Nigerian child receives quality education.
He urged collective action to unleash the potential of educated girls in driving positive change across African communities.
In closing, President Tinubu officially launched the #WeAreEqual Campaign in Nigeria, urging stakeholders to join hands in advancing education and gender equality.
