The special adviser to the former governor of Anambra State on education, Hon. Dame Joyce Chinyere Mbakwe has urge Nigerians to protect the right of the girl-child.

Hon Dame Chinyere stated this in an event at Aguata Anambra State . The event was organized by the Coordinator, National Youth Council of Nigeria, Aguata Local Government Area, Anambra State, Hon Mmaduabuchi Ezekafor “Aguata Girl Child Symposium, 2025” theme: “ The Girl Child, Breaking Barriers, Empowering the Future”,

Hon. Dame Joyce Chinyere Mbakwe who was also the key note speaker highlighted the unique challenges and opportunities faced by girls, particularly in contexts where gender inequality and discrimination exist. She said Many girls are denied access to quality education due to cultural norms, poverty, and conflict.
She emphasized the importance of protecting their rights, ensuring their education, and promoting their well-being.

Hon Dame Chinyere said educating and empowering girls is crucial for overall human development. When girls are educated, they are more likely to lead healthy, productive lives, participate in decision-making, and contribute to their communities.

She also said that addressing the challenges faced by the girl child is a key step towards achieving gender equality and social justice. Dame Chinyere declared that Investing in girls’ education can lead to economic growth by increasing the workforce participation of women and improving their income potential. “When you educate a girl child, you have promoted the potential of the country”.

She said that empowering girls can be a positive role models and agents of change within their communities, fostering better health outcomes, reduced violence, and increased political participation. It is important to address the needs of the girl child, when we do that we are essentially tackling global challenges like climate change, poverty, and conflict, as girls are often on the frontlines of these issues, Dame Chinyere Stated

She ask the young girls to stand on their right saying that girls are often forced into marriage at a young age, which can lead to a range of health and social consequences.

Dame Chinyere concluded by saying that providing girls with opportunities to develop their skills, talents, and leadership potential is key to their empowerment she said by prioritizing the needs and rights of the girl child, societies can create a more just, equitable, and prosperous future.