By Kelvin Obambon
A community-based organization, Support For Girls, Boys And Women Initiative (SUGBWI), has collaborated with the Senator representing Cross River Southern Senatorial District, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong; the Member representing Calabar South/Akpabuyo/Bakassi Federal Constituency, Hon. Joseph Bassey; the Member representing Bakassi State Constituency, Hon. Eyo Bassey and the State Security Adviser, South, Cdr Patrick Odiong, to mark the 2023 International Day of The Girl Child.
The event, themed: “Our Time Is Now, Our Right, Our Future”, took place Friday at Christian Diamond Secondary School, Bakassi local government area and Government Secondary School, Ikot Ewa in Akpabuyo local government area, respectively.
Speaking, the Executive Director of SUGBWI, Hon. Grace Bassey, stressed the pivotal role girls and women play in shaping the society, hence their rights must be recognized and protected.
To begin with, she said there is need to address the issue of gender inequality that limits potentials and opportunities for women and girls, adding that the International Day of the Girl Child is a reminder that the future of the girl child can only be realized when adequate investment in the rights, health and skills are made for the girl child.
Read Also: YPP reacts to Ubah’s defection to APC
“I stand before you today with a heart full of hope and determination as we gather to commemorate the International Day of the Girl Child. This year, under the theme: “Our time is now, our rights, our Future,” we come together to acknowledge the urgency of our mission – that which resonates deeply with the values and goals of SUGBWi, our community-based organization.
“In Bakassi and Akpabuyo, as well as across the continent, we recognize the pivotal role that girls and women play in shaping our societies. They are not just the future; they are the present, and their rights must be acknowledged and upheld.
“First and foremost, we must address the issue of gender equity. It is an indisputable fact that gender inequality persists in various forms, limiting the opportunities and potential of our girls. Let us remember that equity is not merely a matter of fairness; it is a matter of social justice. It is about ensuring that every girl has an equal chance to thrive, to learn, and to lead.
“Health for women is another crucial aspect of our mission. It is disheartening to see how preventable health issues affect the lives of many women and girls. By raising awareness about health, particularly in areas like cancer, we can empower our girls to make informed decisions about their well-being. Their health is not just a personal matter but a fundamental right that we must safeguard.
“Moreover, skill development for women is an essential component of our vision. Skills provide not only economic independence but also a sense of confidence and purpose. As we observe this day, let us reaffirm our commitment to equipping our girls with the skills they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
“In conclusion, the International Day of the Girl Child is a reminder that the future we envision can only be realized when we invest in the rights, health, and skills of our girls. Together, let us champion gender equity, advocate for women’s health, and promote skill development for women. Our time is now, and the future is ours to shape. Thank you for joining us in this important mission, and let us work tirelessly towards a brighter, more equitable future for all,” she said.