Lagos, Nigeria: In celebration of the 2025 International Day of the Girl-Child, the Lagos State Government has called on young girls to embrace diligence, self-worth, and bold ambition.
The Executive Secretary of DSVA, Mrs Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, gave the charge during a programme commemorating the 2025 International Day of the Girl-Child, observed annually on Oct. 11.
Vivour-Adeniyi, in a statement on Sunday in Lagos, urged girls never to believe they were less than enough, stressing that they were leaders in the making.
She noted that this year’s theme reminded everyone that every girl deserved a life free from violence, discrimination, and fear.
According to her, stakeholders must invest in girls’ rights as they represent the nation’s future and the leaders of tomorrow.
“Today, we celebrate you – the girl-child – not just for who you are now, but for the limitless potential within you.
“You are daughters, students, leaders-in-training, innovators of tomorrow, and the heartbeat of our society,” she said.
Vivour-Adeniyi said that in girls’ dreams, courage, and voices lay the promise of a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Nigeria.
She lamented that too many girls still face abuse, early marriage, exploitation, and barriers to education, even within communities.
She stated that the Lagos State Government, under Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, would continue prioritising policies and programmes that protect girls’ rights.
“At the Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency, we want you to know: you are not powerless; your voice matters.
“Speak up when something is wrong; silence helps no one. You are not alone. There are safe spaces, helplines, teachers, and mentors ready to support you,” she said.
Vivour-Adeniyi stressed that when girls are educated, protected, and empowered, they transform families, communities, and entire nations.
“To every girl here today: dream boldly, study diligently, and never let anyone convince you that you are less than enough.
“You are leaders in the making, and the future belongs to you,” she said.
She called on parents, teachers, community leaders, and policymakers to build a Lagos where every girl can thrive safely and confidently.
“Together, we can ensure that your generation grows up in a society that recognises your worth and invests in your dreams,” she said.
Also speaking, the President of the International Women’s Society, Mrs Olufunke Oduwole, described the girl-child as special, worthy of love, and deserving of respect.
Oduwole said girls must know their fundamental rights and always speak up, especially on gender-based violence, to ensure they are heard and respected.
The Founder of Unveiling Royalty Empowerment Foundation, Mrs Judith Ayodele, urged girls to remain focused, build character, and develop resilience.
Ayodele advised girls to identify their goals, stay committed, and avoid distractions such as peer pressure and low self-esteem.
The Lead Coach at Smart Stewards, Mrs Sola Adesakin, encouraged girls to start building wealth and personal value early in life.
Adesakin added that it was important for girls to have a clear vision for a prosperous future.
“Nothing guarantees a good future like a correct picture, and you cannot feature in a future you can’t picture,” she said.
