The Presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 general elections Peter Obi, has described the girl-child is key to the future of our country. Empowering her with education, healthcare, and equal opportunities is not just a moral duty but an essential investment in development of Nigeria
Obi spoke in Kaduna when he participated in the Kaduna Girl-Child Conference/Award 2024, an initiative organized by the Creative Think Tank Group and Bounty Food Bank after his speaking engagement in Yola, Adamawa State.
Though he arrived late due to his previous commitment in Yola, Obi indicated that he was deeply inspired by the commitment shown to the girl-child’s rights and development.

“The girl-child is key to the future of our country. Empowering her with education, healthcare, and equal opportunities is not just a moral duty but an essential investment in our national growth,”
He emphasized the importance of breaking down barriers and creating safe spaces for girls to realize their full potential.

In addition, Obi visited the Womanhood College of Health Sciences and Technology in Kaduna, an institution dedicated to training women for careers in healthcare.
He donated ₦5 million in support of their efforts, promising to continue supporting institutions that play a crucial role in shaping future leaders.

Obi also disclosed his plans to visit Saint Gerard’s Nursing School, where he had previously donated ₦10 million.
Due to heavy traffic, he couldn’t attend in person but spoke with the management, expressing his apologies and offering an additional ₦5 million to further support the school’s mission.

Through these actions, Obi reinforced his belief that prioritizing education and healthcare is crucial for building a stronger Nigeria. “A new Nigeria is now very POssible,” he concluded.

***Millions of Nigerian Women to Live on Less Than $2.15 Per Day by 2030

With over 27,698 cases of gender-based violence (GBV) recorded between 2020 and 2023, the 100 Women Lobby Group National Hub has called for urgent action to address the alarming rise in violence against women, compounded by worsening economic conditions.
Speaking at an event marking the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, on a topic; Today’s economy and gender based Violence in Nigeria via Zoom over the weekend, Coordinator Felicia Onibon highlighted the critical need for comprehensive strategies to combat both violence and poverty.
“These figures are not just numbers; they represent the lives of women and girls who have suffered,” Onibon stated.
“Economic hardship has made many women more vulnerable to abuse, and we must act now to change this narrative.”

The event drew attention to the economic challenges facing Nigerian women, with current projections showing that millions will still live on less than $2.15 a day by 2030.
Onibon emphasized that poverty exacerbates women’s vulnerability to violence, noting that many are forced to prioritize their families’ needs over their own, often at great personal cost.
“Women are more food insecure than men, and the constant financial stress leaves them more susceptible to exploitation and abuse,” Onibon explained.

Onibon also criticized the inefficiency of Nigeria’s judicial system in handling GBV cases.
She pointed out that many cases languish in the courts for years, with a disturbingly low conviction rate.
“The lack of accountability within the justice system perpetuates a culture of impunity,” she said. “Survivors often remain silent, knowing that their chances of receiving justice are slim.”

The 100 Women Lobby Group urged policymakers, civil society organizations, and international partners to work together to address the intertwined issues of economic hardship and GBV.
Onibon called for increased investment in women’s economic empowerment and reforms to ensure swift justice for survivors.
“Ending GBV requires a multi-faceted approach,” she said.
“We need to address the root causes, from poverty to weak legal protections, and ensure that women have the resources to rebuild their lives.”

As the 16 Days of Activism continue, the 100 Women Lobby Group remains committed to raising awareness and advocating for systemic change. Onibon concluded by emphasizing the importance of collective action to ensure a future where women and girls are safe, empowered, and economically secure.
“Together, we can break the cycle of violence and poverty,” she said. “The time to act is now.”

Senator representing Kogi Central senatorial district, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has secured a job for Jafaru Adavize Muhammed, a graduate of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, following his public appeal for employment.

Adavize, who had been unemployed for several years, responded to Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s August 2024 announcement offering job opportunities to young graduates in her constituency.
He has since been employed by Air Peace and has resumed his duties.

In a message of gratitude, Adavize expressed heartfelt thanks to the senator:

“This opportunity is life-changing, and I am deeply grateful for your support and belief in my potential. Your dedication to uplifting others is truly inspiring, and I am committed to making the most of this opportunity.”

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan congratulated Adavize and advised him to remain focused and hardworking. She emphasized her continued commitment to creating employment opportunities for the youth in her constituency.

“Stay diligent and make the most of this opportunity. I am committed to ensuring that more young graduates in Kogi Central have access to meaningful employment,” she said.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s intervention is part of her ongoing efforts to address youth unemployment. She has previously secured federal government and private-sector jobs for graduates, further demonstrating her dedication to the development and empowerment of her constituents.